Arsenal sent a resounding message in the Premier League title race with a dominant 5-1 victory over Crystal Palace on Saturday. The win, powered by Gabriel Jesus’ double and a commanding team performance, narrowed the gap to league leaders Liverpool to just three points.
“We’re not even halfway through, so it’s on,” Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta declared confidently after the game. “We’ve done the job, and we’re in a really good run, even though we drew two games we should’ve won. It’s about enjoying the moment and focusing on the next one.”
The Gunners wasted no time asserting their dominance, with Jesus opening the scoring in the sixth minute off a Bukayo Saka assist. Although Ismaila Sarr equalized for Palace, Jesus restored Arsenal’s lead with a precise header from a corner. Kai Havertz extended the advantage after pouncing on a rebound from Jesus’ strike that hit the post.
Crystal Palace had opportunities to fight back, particularly through Sarr, who missed a crucial header early in the second half. But Arsenal capitalized on every misstep, adding two late goals, including a stunning 84th-minute strike from Declan Rice to cap off the emphatic win.
The only blemish on Arsenal’s night was the first-half injury to Bukayo Saka, who limped off the pitch, raising concerns for Arteta as the festive fixtures approach.
Despite Liverpool holding two games in hand, Arsenal’s rise to third place—overtaking Nottingham Forest and sitting just a point behind second-placed Chelsea—has reignited their title hopes.
“I’m going to enjoy Christmas with my family because when you win, it’s always better,” Arteta remarked with a smile.
With this performance, Arsenal sent a clear signal: the title race is far from over.
