Arsenal returned to winning ways in the Premier League with a commanding 4-0 victory over Leeds United at Elland Road. After a tricky run of results, this was exactly the kind of performance you want to see: convincing, controlled, and with a clean sheet to boot.
Mikel Arteta tweaked the line-up slightly, bringing in Kai Havertz in place of Martin Odegaard, and with Bukayo Saka side-lined in the warm-up, Noni Madueke slotted in on the right wing. The opening exchanges were fairly even — Leeds started sharp and lively at home, Arsenal probing, but clear-cut chances were scarce.
Around the 20th minute, Arsenal took control. A string of corners and sustained possession forced an opening. Madueke’s deft footwork created space, and Martin Zubimendi flicked home a precise header from a crowded box to make it 1-0. The goal seemed to exorcise the Spaniard’s frustration from previous near-misses, and from that point, Arsenal dominated the rhythm of the game.
The second came just minutes later, officially an own goal by Leeds’ Karl Darlow, though Madueke’s corner delivery was spot on. Either way, the Gunners doubled the lead before half-time, and the pressure on Leeds was relentless.
Arsenal continued to threaten after the break. Viktor Gyokeres had a golden chance from Trossard’s first-time ball but took too long on the finish — a reminder that timing in the Premier League is everything. Arteta made smart substitutions: Martinelli and Odegaard replaced Madueke and Havertz. Both contributed immediately to the third goal, with Gyokeres stabbing home from close range, showing improved movement and composure in the box.
⚪️ Leeds 0-4 Arsenal 🔴
— EuroFoot (@eurofootcom) January 31, 2026
Goals: Zubimendi, Darlow (OG), Gyökeres, Jesus. pic.twitter.com/XvxhYWCE8A
Riccardo Calafiori and Gabriel Jesus were also introduced, with Jesus adding the final gloss in the closing minutes. A slick interplay with Odegaard allowed him to curl a composed finish into the corner, rounding off a dominant day for the visitors.
Key Takeaways:
- Team Response: This was the perfect reply after recent underwhelming results. Arsenal showed character, cohesion, and tactical flexibility.
- Midfield Control: Declan Rice asserted his authority in midfield, with Zubimendi orchestrating play and scoring the opener.
- Striker Performances: Gyokeres and Jesus both delivered goals and moments of influence, reminding us of the squad’s depth.
- Bench Impact: Madueke stepped up brilliantly in Saka’s absence, contributing directly to both opening goals.
Post-Match Notes:
Arteta praised the squad’s performance, highlighting the team’s hunger and professionalism against a Leeds side that had only lost once in their previous ten games. Minor concerns remain over Saka’s “niggle” and reports of an issue for Merino, but nothing appears major.
This was a statement win. Convincing, composed, and full of energy. Arsenal did their job, extended their lead at the top of the table, and sent a clear message ahead of the Carabao Cup semi-final.
Momentum is back — now the challenge is keeping it rolling.
