Arsenal supporters went home with satisfaction far beyond the three points their team collected. Their victory coincided with two of their supposed challengers stumbling in dramatic fashion. Liverpool, who expected a routine win at Anfield, struggled miserably to break Sunderland’s resilience, while Chelsea were dismantled by relegation contenders Leeds United.
For Arsenal, it was a confident and professional display, showcasing maturity that has been steadily building under Mikel Arteta. Their opener arrived early when Mikel Merino met a pinpoint cross from Ben White. Arsenal then maintained total command without demonstrating urgency, content to wait for their moment. Brentford’s attempt at a late reaction fizzled into nothing, as Arsenal retained possession comfortably.
In added time, Bukayo Saka provided the moment that settled the outcome. Receiving Merino’s clever through ball, the English winger outfoxed a defender before firing powerfully into the net. The Emirates erupted in celebration, not just for the goal but for what it symbolised—control, composure and a team capable of grinding out wins even without dazzling football.
Across the country, Liverpool faced a different storyline entirely. Sunderland, often overshadowed by bigger clubs, showed no fear at Anfield. Liverpool appeared predictable and lacked creativity in the final third. Their designated playmakers struggled to unlock Sunderland’s defensive discipline, and the Anfield crowd grew impatient.
Van Dijk, once viewed as the most secure defender in Europe, endured yet another poor outing. A careless pass gave Sunderland possession in a dangerous area, leading to Talbi’s shot that bounced off the Dutchman’s back and found the net. The reaction was telling—frustration, disbelief, and a sense of vulnerability that Liverpool have not shown at home for years.
Liverpool gained a lifeline late in the match through an own goal created by Florian Wirtz’s persistence. Yet Sunderland came agonisingly close to winning it in stoppage time, forcing Chiesa into a brilliant stop that saved Liverpool from total embarrassment.
Chelsea, meanwhile, seemed to collapse even faster. Their visit to Leeds was expected to be routine; instead, it became a nightmare. The Blues’ midfield looked disjointed, their defence fragile and their attack inconsistent. Leeds punished them clinically, scoring three goals with confidence and aggression Chelsea could not match.
The result left Chelsea in a worrying position—fourth in the table, but far from convincing. Liverpool’s erratic form pushed them down to eighth, and fans are increasingly pointing fingers at Van Dijk’s leadership. Arsenal, in stark contrast, push forward with stability and belief.
It may only be December, but the Premier League landscape is shifting. Arsenal are growing stronger, Liverpool are searching for answers, and Chelsea seem to be sliding toward another disappointing campaign.