Analysis · europe

Arsenal Defeat Chelsea 2-1 as Questions Surround Blues' Midfield Depth

Arsenal secured a 2-1 victory over Chelsea on Sunday, maintaining their strong Premier League start while tactical selection choices at Chelsea raised questions over squad composition.

ReportedAnalysis·2026-09-08·3 min

Written by GFR Editorial Desk · AR001035

Arsenal extended their strong start to the Premier League season on Sunday, securing a 2-1 victory over Chelsea. The result gives Arsenal nine points from their opening three matches, having conceded just one goal across that span.

According to analysis published by BBC Sport, Kai Havertz and Martin Odegaard delivered influential performances to drive the victory. The report noted that Arsenal maintained their attacking momentum in the title race despite not introducing a new central striker to the squad.

Midfield selection scrutiny

In contrast, Chelsea's tactical arrangement during the defeat drew attention. BBC Sport reported that Chelsea finished Sunday's match with two right-backs deployed alongside each other in central midfield.

The selection choice raised questions regarding Chelsea's squad balance and options in the center of the pitch, particularly following reported transfer expenditures totaling £349m.

Opposing momentum

Arsenal's victory reinforces their position near the top of the table, underpinned by three consecutive wins and a single goal conceded.

Chelsea, meanwhile, face ongoing evaluation regarding their tactical depth as they seek to resolve positional shortages highlighted in the closing stages of Sunday's fixture.

Sources

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