Arsenal extended their unbeaten run to seven games against Nuno Espírito Santo's West Ham. The Portuguese manager started Mateus Fernandes, but the Hammers created little throughout the 90 minutes.
Arteta fielded an attacking lineup, featuring Rice, Odegaard, and Eze in midfield, but the trio lasted only 20 minutes. The Norwegian midfielder went down after a clash with Summerville, unable to shake off a knee injury, and had to be substituted.
Odegaard became the first player to be substituted in the first half in three consecutive games. The captain's injury didn't deter the Gunners, who were only prevented from opening the scoring before the 38th minute by a couple of saves from Areola.
The French goalkeeper even parried a cross-shot from Eze, but Declan Rice, the former West Ham captain, showed no hesitation on the rebound, punishing his old club.
The conceded goal failed to spark West Ham, who always looked more likely to concede a second than to find an equalizer. Arsenal naturally extended their lead, but the match wasn't without controversy.
Diouf appeared to foul Timber outside the box, but the referee pointed to the penalty spot. Saka calmly converted the penalty, sealing the 2-0 final score.
Nuno Espírito Santo suffered his first defeat at the helm of West Ham, following a 1-1 draw against Everton in his debut. Meanwhile, Arsenal, with former Sporting player Viktor Gyokeres playing the full match, climbed to the top of the Premier League, putting pressure on Liverpool, who face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.