Mikel Arteta celebrates as Arsenal break West Ham curse with dominant win

Mikel Arteta celebrates Arsenal win over West Ham as the Gunners break their home curse and climb to the top of the Premier League table.

Mikel Arteta celebrates Arsenal win over West Ham as the Gunners finally end a two-season home hoodoo with a dominant performance that lifted them to the top of the Premier League table.

In a statement display of control and confidence, Mikel Arteta celebrates Arsenal win not just for the three points, but for breaking a frustrating run of defeats to West Ham at the Emirates Stadium.

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The 2-0 victory symbolized redemption for Arsenal, who had fallen to the Hammers in each of their last two home meetings. This time, Arteta’s men dictated the tempo, dominated possession, and produced a flawless defensive showing that left West Ham without a single shot on target.

Speaking after the match, Arteta said:

“The last two games have been very special… we had a history there, a lot of scars and a lot of learnings to take. We put that right.”

Saka and Rice Shine in Milestone Moments

Bukayo Saka marked his 200th Premier League appearance with his 100th goal involvement, scoring from the spot after Jurriën Timber was fouled. Declan Rice added Arsenal’s second—a spectacular strike against his former club—before choosing not to celebrate out of respect.

Arteta praised both players, highlighting their maturity and leadership. He also commended the warm reception Rice received from West Ham fans, calling it “great to see” and “a moment of class.”

Arsenal’s Growing Resilience

For Mikel Arteta, the win was more than just statistics—it represented mental strength.

“We’ve had difficult fixtures since the start of the season, some very bad injuries as well, but the team is performing, playing well and winning,” he said.

The result temporarily sent Arsenal top of the Premier League, above Liverpool, and reinforced their growing reputation as genuine title contenders.

With momentum building and past frustrations behind them, Arsenal enter the international break full of confidence. Arteta’s challenge now is to maintain this intensity as the season’s toughest fixtures approach.

West Ham manager Nuno Espírito Santo admitted his side are still adapting to his system but vowed to use the break to rebuild cohesion and belief.

Arsenal, meanwhile, continue to evolve under Arteta—turning scars into strength and setbacks into statements of intent.

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