Arsenal extended their winning streak to nine matches and recorded a seventh straight clean sheet with a comfortable victory over Burnley. Remarkably, it was the third time in four league games that Mikel Arteta’s side prevented their opponents from registering a single shot on target—further proof that the Gunners are mounting a serious challenge for the Premier League title this season.
The spotlight once again fell on Declan Rice, whose influence on the game was undeniable. The midfielder delivered the corner that led to Gabriel Magalhães’ clever flick, setting up Viktor Gyökeres to head home Arsenal’s opening goal. Rice later turned scorer himself, nodding past Martin Dubravka after meeting Leandro Trossard’s precise cross. His performance was a masterclass in leadership and composure, underscoring why he has become one of Arsenal’s most reliable figures in their pursuit of silverware.
Despite the professional nature of the win, Burnley did not make it easy. The hosts nearly pulled one back when Hannibal’s late free-kick struck the post, a moment Arteta himself highlighted in his post-match conference. “It shows our spirit,” Arteta said. “After a corner from Declan, Ethan loses the duel, and you see ten players sprint 80 metres back. That’s the kind of desire and discipline that wins you games.”
That relentless mentality has seen Arsenal flourish even amid an injury crisis. Club captain Martin Ødegaard, Kai Havertz, Noni Madueke, and Gabriel Jesus—all valued at over £150 million combined—are currently sidelined. Yet their absence has only encouraged others to step up, with Rice leading by example. His passion was evident at full-time as he celebrated vigorously in front of the away fans, arms raised and voice echoing with pride. It was a moment that captured his growing bond with the club and his determination to end Arsenal’s long wait for a league title.
Arteta’s only concern came with injuries to Viktor Gyökeres and Martin Zubimendi, both of whom suffered minor muscle problems. The manager confirmed that Zubimendi would have missed the next European fixture against Slavia Praha regardless, due to suspension, while Christian Nørgaard is expected to fill in. Arsenal’s fluidity dipped slightly after Gyökeres was replaced by Mikel Merino, a change that altered their attacking rhythm.
“The first half was one of our best this season,” Arteta reflected. “We scored two goals, created several big chances, and gave away nothing. The second half, though, we lost some sharpness and didn’t take enough risks going forward.”
Merino, while industrious, lacked the penetration Gyökeres provides with his direct runs. Still, with Havertz and Jesus nearing their return, Arsenal’s attacking options should soon be restored. Arteta may also look to Leandro Trossard or young Andre Harriman-Annous—who impressed against Brighton—as potential alternatives in the forward line.
Next up for the Gunners is a Europa League trip to face Slavia Praha before returning to domestic action against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light. With confidence soaring and performances tightening, Arsenal appear every bit the title contenders their supporters have long hoped for. At the heart of it all stands Declan Rice—embodying the drive, unity, and belief propelling this Arsenal side toward greatness.
