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Mikel Merino scored the only goal as Arsenal secured a narrow victory over Chelsea, moving 12 points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool. Both teams entered the match without their first-choice strikers, with Kai Havertz ruled out for the season due to a hamstring injury for Arsenal, while Chelsea's Nicolas Jackson was also unavailable. Chelsea suffered another blow as their key player, Cole Palmer, was missing due to injury, marking the first time they had to play without him since their 5-0 defeat to Arsenal last season.
Arsenal started strongly, with Merino again deployed as a makeshift striker. The hosts dominated early on, with Leandro Trossard, Gabriel Martinelli, and Declan Rice all going close. Their breakthrough came in the 20th minute when Martin Ødegaard delivered a curling corner, and Merino flicked it past a stretching Robert Sánchez to give Arsenal the lead. Chelsea's best chance came when Marc Cucurella's powerful strike slipped through David Raya's hands, but the ball rolled just wide of the post. Sánchez, recently reinstated as Chelsea's first-choice goalkeeper, had a shaky game, struggling under Arsenal's pressure and receiving jeers from the home crowd when he had the ball at his feet. However, he did make an excellent save to deny Merino in the second half, but Chelsea failed to capitalize on their few chances.
With Liverpool not playing in the league this weekend due to their involvement in the Carabao Cup final, Arsenal took the opportunity to close the gap at the top. Since their last title challenge under Mikel Arteta, Arsenal has attempted to play with more control, but their attacking play has often been criticized. Injuries to key players this season have only highlighted their need for a top-class forward. Despite being well-organized, they have struggled to make the most of good attacking positions, which has contributed to their fading title hopes.
Merino's goal was Arsenal's 11th from a corner in all competitions this season, further justifying Arteta's focus on set pieces with specialist coach Nicolas Jover. These moments have been vital in close games, ensuring Arsenal remains competitive despite their struggles in open play. Myles Lewis-Skelly impressed once again, marking his return to the starting lineup with a strong performance, just days after earning his first call-up to the senior England squad. Meanwhile, Bukayo Saka, who was seen pitchside before the match, is getting closer to a return, according to Arteta. Arsenal fans will be hoping he recovers in time for their crucial Champions League quarter-final clash against Real Madrid next month.
