Redemption is a powerful force, and Mikel Arteta knows how to wield it to his advantage. As the manager of Arsenal, Arteta has consistently used past disappointments to fuel future successes. The recent 6-0 win against West Ham United in the Premier League is a testament to the effectiveness of this strategy. Last season, the Hammers came from behind to draw 2-2 in the corresponding fixture, causing Arsenal’s title challenge to crumble. This season, West Ham won the reverse fixture and knocked Arsenal out of the Carabao Cup. On paper, this match looked challenging, especially after routine victories by Liverpool and Manchester City. However, Arteta’s ability to inspire his players through their own setbacks proved to be a game-changer once again.
Arteta revealed that he reminded his players of their chequered record at Nottingham Forest before securing a 2-1 win last month. Similarly, the team found inspiration in their history against West Ham. Arteta’s message to his players was clear: “Time to beat West Ham.” The team knew that they had to perform better in both boxes compared to their previous encounter. The Arsenal manager emphasized the significance of the victory, stating, “It’s great to make [club] history, especially the way we have done it. We’re in a good moment and when you have good moments, you have to build and maintain the momentum.” This mentality was evident from the beginning of the match, as the team looked sharp and determined to put right their past disappointments against West Ham.
If this match was a history test, Arsenal passed with flying colors. In the first half, William Saliba, Gabriel, Bukayo Saka, and Leandro Trossard put Arsenal in a commanding 4-0 lead. Past warnings were everywhere, as the last time Arsenal led by that scoreline at halftime, they ended up drawing 4-4. However, this time, there was no collapse. Saka scored another goal, and Declan Rice, returning to his former club, completed his own personal restorative storyline with a stunning 25-yard strike. The home fans had little to cheer for, as thousands poured out at halftime, overwhelmed by Arsenal’s superiority. Rice’s performance showcased his adaptation since his move across London, and the £105 million fee now seems like a bargain.
Rice’s impact went beyond his goal-scoring contributions. Throughout the match, he demonstrated his set-piece skills. Arteta praised Rice for his emotional and focused performance, considering this game against his beloved West Ham. Rice’s set-piece deliveries resulted in goals for both Saliba and Gabriel, highlighting his ability to threaten from outside the box. Arteta acknowledged, “[Rice’s set-piece ability] is something that we knew and we could imagine.” This additional dimension to Rice’s game adds further value to Arsenal’s midfield.
Although Arsenal may play in the shadows of Liverpool and Manchester City, they are determined to create their own legacy. Several players made history in this match. Rice provided three goal contributions in one game for the first time, Saka became the youngest Arsenal player since 1978 to reach 50 goals for the club, and Trossard’s strike marked Arsenal’s 8,000th league goal. Not only did Arsenal achieve their biggest away victory in the Premier League, but they also handed West Ham their joint-heaviest league defeat. Arteta acknowledged the importance of maintaining momentum and meeting the high standards set by their rivals. Liverpool may have a two-point lead, and City may have a game in hand, but Arsenal’s hunger, fueled by their recent history, keeps them firmly in the conversation for success.
Arsenal’s 6-0 win against West Ham was a testament to the power of redemption and the ability of Mikel Arteta to motivate his players. The team’s past disappointments fueled their determination to succeed. They played with resilience, making a statement of success and writing their own history. With the hunger to maintain momentum and the standards set by their rivals, Arsenal continues to make their mark in the Premier League.
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