Arsenal began the new season with a 2-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers at the Emirates Stadium.
Kai Havertz put the Gunners ahead in the first half, heading in from a well-placed cross on the right. Mikel Arteta's side then dominated the remainder of the half, but Wolves made things more challenging after the break.
Bukayo Saka faced one of the Premier League's tougher left-backs, Rayan Ait-Nouri, and was relentless as he put in a solid display that ultimately led to him securing the three points as he scored Arsenal's second goal with a powerful left-footed shot. His precise crosses, including the one that led to Havertz's opener, caused problems for Wolves throughout.
David Raya also ensured he kept his first clean sheet of the season as he made a crucial save in the first half to preserve Arsenal's lead, reacting swiftly to deny Jorgen Strand Larsen's header.
Though Arsenal struggled at the start of the second half, Arteta's introduction of Jurrien Timber helped regain control before Saka sealed the win.
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What happened to Declan Rice?
The one scare that Arsenal fans will be desperate for an update on is the fitness of Declan Rice who left the pitch early due to what looked like a cramp.
Declan Rice goes down with what seems to be cramp. A measure of how intense this game has been, and also perhaps of how tough it is to play a full Premier League match after such a short pre-season.
— Sam Dean (@SamJDean) August 17, 2024
Arteta then confirmed in his post-match press conference that it indeed was a cramp and nothing else.
"He was cramping a bit. He has not had the longest pre-season ever. He was really trying and put in an unbelievable performance today."
