Arsenal made light work of Premier League newcomers Leeds with a 5-0 victory at the Emirates, but the win was overshadowed by fresh injury setbacks ahead of a crucial trip to Liverpool.
New signing Viktor Gyokeres marked his home debut with two goals, while Jurrien Timber also struck twice from corners and Bukayo Saka added another before being forced off injured.
Fifteen-year-old Max Dowman made headlines with a late cameo, winning a stoppage-time penalty converted by Gyokeres.
Despite the scoreline, Arsenal’s injury woes deepened. Captain Martin Odegaard left the pitch with a shoulder problem in his 200th appearance, Saka appeared uncomfortable after limping off.
Meanwhile, Kai Havertz’s knee issue, picked up in training, was one factor behind Arsenal’s £60m hijacking of Tottenham’s move for Eberechi Eze.
Christian Norgaard is also yet to feature due to fitness concerns.
Mikel Arteta, who has now overseen more than £1 billion in transfer spending, unveiled Eze to the Emirates crowd before kick-off alongside fellow recruits Noni Madueke, Gyokeres, Martin Zubimendi, Cristhian Mosquera, and Kepa Arrizabalaga.