Matchday three showed Premier League quality everywhere, but also familiar flaws, late swings and missed chances.
Chelsea were beaten at Arsenal, but Alonso’s side showed enough in a 2-1 loss to leave room for optimism.
Arsenal’s midfield strength told against Chelsea, whose summer compromises left them exposed and chasing.
Arsenal host Chelsea on Sunday in the first major Premier League fixture of the 2026/27 season.
Arsenal and Chelsea meet with several fitness doubts, including Saliba, Rice, Caicedo and Henderson.
Arteta believes Chelsea's lighter schedule could help them stay in the Premier League title race.
A costly summer produced several headline moves, but these eight signings stood out for all the wrong reasons.
Arsenal and Chelsea renew hostilities, with recent meetings decided by fine margins, set pieces and red cards.
Chelsea and Arsenal both offer quality, but this combined XI leans on the Blues in several key areas.
Fernández made a sharp City debut after a warm-up injury forced him into the starting XI.
