Monday Briefing: Arsenal secure first win after Chelsea strike force fires blanks

Arsenal won their opening match of the new Premier League season, beating Manchester United 1-0 at their home ground.

Despite the narrow scoreline, Ruben Amorim's men showed signs of progress as Nottingham Forest made a confident start to the tournament and Chelsea shared the points with Crystal Palace.

Gunners' defense at height

Altay Bayindir's blunders decided the outcome of the match, thwarting Manchester United's efforts in a crucial weekend match.

The stadium was filled with tremors as Arteta, who finished second last season, faced the reforming Devils in the main event of the round.

United looked stronger than the team that finished 15th last year (their worst top-flight finish since 1974) but Amorim's men were beaten again by an early goal from Calafiori, who capitalised on a goalkeeper's error.

Experienced newcomers Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo made confident debuts, while Patrick Dorgu almost opened the scoring when he hit the woodwork in the first half.

Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya has saved his team on more than one occasion, neutralising the hosts' attacks.

The head coach stood up for the goalkeeper

Bayindir's failure once again highlighted United's problematic goal position.

The Turkish goalkeeper was given a chance by Andre Onana's recovery, but he failed to handle the cross from the flank, giving Calafiori a chance to head the ball in. Amorim attributed the incident to difficult circumstances.

“There are a lot of things that happen during set pieces. When the goalkeeper is pushed, it's hard for him to focus on the ball. You need to catch it, not collide with the players,” the coach commented.

Recalling a similar episode in the League Cup match with Tottenham, where Bayindir also missed after a corner, Amorim noted: “There was no VAR back then. With a video replay, it would have been a foul. And who saved us in the game with Arsenal? Who was the hero? Altay was great in that match. I trust all three goalkeepers.”

Midfielder at centre of transfer speculation

Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner has said he plans to use Eberechi Eze while he remains at the club, urging the club to ignore rumours that the Englishman is set to be sold.

Despite the media noise, the midfielder took to the field in the match against a lackluster Chelsea, where he almost opened the scoring with a spectacular free kick before the goal was disallowed by VAR.

Palace have held talks with Tottenham, with Arsenal being considered as a possible destination. Glasner stressed: “He is our player and he showed that today. As long as Eze is here, he will play.”

Wood's double earns points

Nottingham Forest responded to Nuno Santo's concerns with a spectacular performance as they thrashed Brentford 3-1 on the opening day.

Following the introduction of new signings Omari Hutchinson and James McAtee, the team had a bright first half, with Chris Wood scoring twice and Dan Ndoye scoring his first goal.

New Bees coach Keith Andrews has faced problems: the sale of leaders, a conflict with Vissa and an unsuccessful start have complicated the beginning of his coaching career.

Igor Thiago's penalty goal only brightened the score.

Ramsey's transfer has taken place

Newcastle have officially announced the transfer of Aston Villa midfielder Jacob Ramsey.

The 24-year-old academy product, who has made 167 appearances for Villa (including 10 Champions League games), has signed a long-term contract worth £39m with bonuses of up to £4m.

“I'm so excited to join. It's been a crazy few days, but I'm ready to get started,” the player shared.

Eddie Howe said: “Jacob is a big signing. His skills will add variety to the game and his Premier League experience will help him settle in quickly.”