Nottingham Forest struggle without Aina as Arsenal new boys shine in convincing win

Arsenal made light work of Nottingham Forest in the absence of Super Eagles star Ola Aina, romping to a comprehensive 3-0 victory.

The Nigerian defender has been sidelined with a long-term injury, and his replacement on the day, Neco Williams was run ragged as Eberechi Eze, Noni Madueke, Viktor Gyokeres, and Martin Zubimendi gave the Gunners an easy win.

The game marked Ange Postecoglou’s debut as Forest manager following the dismissal of Nuno Espírito Santo, but his side struggled to adapt to his attacking philosophy and were second best for most of the contest.

The first half was tight, with few chances for either side. Arsenal dominated possession but lacked a cutting edge until Martín Zubimendi broke the deadlock with a stunning volley; his first goal for the club and the first long-range strike of his league career.

Injuries to Martin Ødegaard and Murillo disrupted both teams, but the Gunners carried momentum into the break.

Arsenal doubled their lead just seconds after the restart when summer signing Viktor Gyokeres finished from close range following Eberechi Eze’s cross.

Forest almost found a lucky reply as Chris Wood’s deflection forced David Raya into tipping the ball onto the bar, but Arsenal quickly reasserted control, with Gyokeres also hitting the post.

The hosts closed out the game comfortably, sealing the win late on with a Zubimendi header. For Arsenal, it was the ideal response to their pre-break defeat to Liverpool, while Forest suffered a second straight 3-0 loss.