Overview
- Arsenal cruised at Elland Road through Martin Zubimendi, a Karl Darlow own goal, Viktor Gyokeres and Gabriel Jesus after Bukayo Saka suffered a warm-up hip issue.
- Stand-in Noni Madueke created the first two goals as Mikel Arteta’s side reset their league form and extended their lead to seven points, with Manchester City and Aston Villa able to cut it on Sunday.
- Liverpool came from behind at Anfield for their first league win of 2026, with Hugo Ekitike scoring twice, Florian Wirtz adding a third and Ibrahima Konaté netting late.
- Arne Slot’s options remained stretched at right-back with Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley out and Joe Gomez unavailable, prompting Dominik Szoboszlai to fill in again.
- Reports state Liverpool have opened talks over emergency defensive cover, targeting Lutsharel Geertruida, while Szoboszlai said contract discussions show “nothing yet.”