Arsenal 2-1 Nottingham Forest: Is this the start of the title race?

First-half goals from Eddie Nketiah and Bukayo Saka earned Arsenal three points at the Emirates on Saturday.

Arsenal kickstarted their title challenge as Mikel Arteta’s side were in cruise control against Nottingham Forest but were given a late scare when Taiwo Awoniyi scored a consolation.

The late goal was a reminder the title will not come easy to the Gunners this season with Manchester City despatching Burnley with relative ease.

A slow start to the game after a 30-minute delay due to ticketing issues was overcome when Nketiah struck home a deflected shot shortly in the 26th minute. Six minutes later, William Saliba won possession high up the pitch before laying it to who Saka who scored a trademark goal from distance.

A late goal from Awoniyi was a reminder to the title-chasing Gunners that winning the league will not come easy, especially after not keeping a clean sheet at home, a record that needs to be improved.

Who stood out?

Bukayo Saka was undoubtedly the star player in this game. The 23-year-old has quickly become one of the best right-sided attackers in the world and this showing against Forest was a highlight of the ability he possesses.

He gave Forest right-back and former Chelsea graduate Ola Aina a difficult and his move onto his left foot has become Arjen Robben level of predictability and execution.

Eddie Nketiah impressed as the central striker position despite some scepticism in pre-season. This performance should convince many that he’s capable of being the leading man for Mikel Arteta.

Gabriel Martinelli also impressed in the final third and his piece of skill opened up the Forest defence for the Nketiah opener in the first half.

Supporters will be expecting more from Kai Havertz and Declan Rice as the two both had quiet games with moments that sparked into life.