Eddie Nketiah achieved a remarkable feat, netting his inaugural Premier League hat-trick, as Arsenal continued their unbeaten streak this season with a commanding triumph over Sheffield United at Emirates Stadium.
In an impressive display of skill and teamwork, Arsenal secured a resounding 5-0 victory over Sheffield United at the Emirates Stadium, and manager Mikel Arteta shared his thoughts on the match.
In his post-match interview with BBC Match of the Day, Arteta acknowledged that it had been an emotional week for his team, with challenging away games, but he emphasised the unique context of the Sheffield United match.
The Blades, currently fighting to stay in the Premier League, have proven to be a tough opponent for many top-tier teams. Arteta recognised the need for patience and improved attacking strategies, especially during the initial 10-25 minutes of the game.
"We had an emotional week, travelling to two very tough away games and today was a different context," the Gunners boss stated. "Sheffield United are fighting for their lives, they are organised and the big teams have struggled to beat them.
"We had to be patient but as well we had to do things better than the first 10-25 minutes. We had to attack them better and play the game where we wanted."
One of the standout performers of the match was Eddie Nketiah, who netted an impressive hat-trick. Arteta commended Nketiah's diverse goals, each showcasing his unique skills, saying: "There were three very different goals, but all very Eddie Nketiah goals."
His first goal was a thing of beauty, a delicate touch and a swift swivel that outfoxed the United defence, courtesy of Declan Rice's pinpoint through ball. The second goal came as Nketiah's thunderous strike found the roof of the net, extending Arsenal's lead against the league's bottom side. And the third, a sensational long-range shot from 25 yards.
Arteta continued: "The first one, where he can read the space and timing to get away from the defender and show composure in the box. The second, when the ball lands quickly, and he has to hit it fast, the third is a superb strike."
"Apart from being an excellent footballer he is an incredible person, his determination is different to anyone else, especially his humbleness and the way he looks after people. What he did for Fabio [Vieira] was a really good touch."
This victory propelled Arsenal to second place in the table, just two points adrift of their north London rivals, Tottenham, marking a tremendous start to the season.
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