Arsenal's dominant 5-0 victory over Leeds United was overshadowed by injury concerns that could derail their title ambitions. Bukayo Saka hobbled off with a hamstring injury in the second half, while captain Martin Odegaard was also forced off with a shoulder problem.
The England international pulled up when running at full speed in the 53rd minute and immediately signalled to the bench. Saka appeared frustrated as he hit the ground, seemingly aware of the damage done before being replaced by Leandro Trossard.
Manager Mikel Arteta confirmed after the match that Saka felt an issue with his hamstring, which is "never a good sign". The Metro reports the injury is to his left hamstring, different from the right hamstring that required surgery last season.
Captain also sidelined
Odegaard's injury occurred in the first half when the Norwegian midfielder tried to play on with a shoulder problem. He was eventually substituted after 38 minutes, with teenage midfielder Ethan Nwaneri coming on in his place.
The injury crisis comes at a crucial time for Arsenal, who have invested heavily in squad depth this summer. According to the Daily Mail, the club has spent £250m with Eze as their seventh signing of the window.
New signings shine
Viktor Gyokeres marked his home debut with a brace, scoring twice in the second half including a penalty won by 15-year-old Max Dowman. The young striker became one of the youngest players in Premier League history when he made his debut late in the game.
Jurrien Timber also scored twice, both from corners delivered by Declan Rice. The Evening Standard reports Arsenal have now scored 33 goals from corners since the start of last season, 13 more than any other team.
Pre-match boost
The day began positively with Eberechi Eze's official unveiling to fans on the Emirates Stadium pitch. The new signing received a rapturous reception from home supporters before the convincing victory over newly-promoted Leeds.
Arteta believes Eze's arrival gives him his strongest ever squad, but the manager's depth may be tested sooner than expected. With Kai Havertz already nursing a knee injury, Arsenal's title credentials could face an immediate examination.
Sources used: "Metro", "Daily Mail", "Evening Standard" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
