Arsenal started with three new signings in the line-up. Two of them introduced themselves immediately.
Just a few minutes into the match, the new Brazilian Gabriel Jesus spun with the Crystal Palace defense and finally the ball reached compatriot Gabriel Martinelli, who, however, shot the ball wide.
In the 20th minute, Martinelli got revenge. On a corner, Ukrainian new signing Oleksandr Zintjenko ran completely free and headed the ball on to Martinelli, who in turn headed the ball into the goal.
— The goal means a lot, but the most important thing was the victory. We fought until the end, says Martinelli in Viaplay’s broadcast, and praised the new acquisitions.
— The new players helped us a lot, Gabriel Jesus and Zintjenko.
“Waited long”
The third debutant was centre-back William Saliba, who has belonged to Arsenal since 2019 but has been on loan, most recently to Marseille.
“I’ve been waiting a long time for this and I’m happy that I got to start with a victory,” says Saliba.
A few minutes into the second half, Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Oluchi had a very good chance to equalise, after a butter pass from star Wilfried Zaha. But Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale dived and Oluchi shot straight at him.
Own goal
Crystal Palace took on more and more in the match and Arsenal’s lead hung by a thin thread.
But instead of an equaliser, Arsenal were able to make it 2–0 after Bukayo Saka shot at goal and the ball unluckily caught center back Marc Guéhi and went into the goal.
— It was a difficult match, but we were strong and stable. The victory was important for confidence, says Saliba.