In a clash where Mikel Arteta faced off against his former colleague Vincent Kompany, Arsenal secured a vital 3-1 victory against a resilient Burnley side. Despite the Clarets' determined efforts, Arsenal's second-half display, fueled by two crucial corners, paved the way for a much-needed win.
Leandro Trossard initiated the scoring in the 45th minute, connecting with Bukayo Saka's precise header from a Gabriel Martinelli cross. However, concerns arose as Trossard collided with the post during the celebration. The forward, displaying resilience, continued after a brief scare.
Burnley's response came in the 54th minute when Josh Brownhill's shot deflected off Gabriel, leveling the score. Arsenal quickly regained control, with William Saliba powerfully heading home from Trossard's corner just three minutes later.
Oleksandr Zinchenko sealed the game with a unique karate-style kick, capitalising on a rebound from Dara O'Shea's header off another Trossard corner.
Despite the win, Arteta's post-match focus shifted to VAR, acknowledging the correct decision in Fabio Vieira's red card incident. The match showcased Arsenal's physicality and character, often criticised aspects of their game. The telepathic connection between Trossard and Saka demonstrated a newfound understanding within the team.
For Burnley, despite a disciplined performance, the disappointment lingered in the timing of goals conceded. Kompany acknowledged moments of momentum but emphasised the need to sharpen their performance, especially in crucial situations. The victory marked a significant result for Arteta, escaping potential injury concerns and witnessing a side that displayed both resilience and a newfound physical edge.