Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has credited the prospect of winning two major competitions this season with fuelling his players' desire, following a commanding 3-0 Premier League victory over Fulham. The win at Craven Cottage on Sunday saw the Gunners restore their five-point lead at the top of the table over Manchester City.
Goals from Gabriel, Gabriel Martinelli, and Martin Odegaard, all assisted by Leandro Trossard, secured a comfortable London derby triumph. The result marked Arsenal's fifth consecutive Premier League win and their second clean sheet in a row. Arteta's side also remain in contention for the Europa League, with a last-16 second leg against Sporting Lisbon upcoming after the first leg ended 2-2.
Speaking after the match, Arteta commented on the motivation within his squad: "The opportunity to win two competitions this season is fuelling their hunger to win matches." He highlighted the team's collective effort and the quality displayed throughout the game, particularly in the first half where all three goals were scored. The manager praised the performance of Leandro Trossard, who became the first player in Premier League history to assist three goals in the first half of an away game.
Fulham, who had been enjoying a strong season under Marco Silva, found themselves unable to break down Arsenal's resolute defence. Despite a spirited effort in the second half, they failed to register a shot on target. The defeat leaves Fulham in seventh place, still well-placed for a potential European qualification spot, but underlines the significant challenge posed by the league leaders.
Arsenal's next Premier League fixture sees them host Crystal Palace, while their immediate focus shifts to their Europa League commitments. The impressive display against Fulham, coupled with Arteta's comments, suggests a squad fully committed to challenging on multiple fronts as the season enters its critical phase.