<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-improving-saints-stun-chelsea-with-2-0-win-at-stamford-bridge-270505">Chelsea</a> produced a stunning late comeback to beat Arsenal 2-1 in the Premier League on Sunday, consigning Mikel Arteta to defeat on his home debut as coach of the north London side.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang gave the hosts the lead in the 13th minute but Arsenal goalkeeper Bernd Leno's howler handed Jorginho an equaliser on a plate after 83 minutes.

Four minutes later, Tammy Abraham settled a bad-tempered London derby when he turned in the box and drilled through the hapless Leno's legs.

Arsenal, 12th, started with great intensity, forcing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-chelseas-frank-lampard-savours-win-over-old-mentor-jose-mourinho-269624">Frank Lampard</a>'s tired-looking Chelsea back, until Aubameyang broke the deadlock after 13 minutes with an acrobatic header.

Lampard brought on Jorginho after 34 minutes and changed from a 3-4-3 formation to 4-3-3, as he did on Boxing Day against Southampton, and it helped the visitors find a foothold at a fired-up Emirates Stadium.

Fourth-place Chelsea, who lost five of their previous seven league games, had the better of the second half and when Leno blundered they quickly turned the screw to leave Arteta still hunting for his first win, following a draw at Bournemouth.

After <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-aubameyang-goal-earns-artetas-arsenal-draw-at-bournemouth-270498">Aubameyang</a>'s opener, Alexandre Lacazette came close to adding a second but N'Golo Kante made a vital interception in front of goal.

The hosts showed more spark than in recent weeks but could not capitalise and Jorginho's presence helped Chelsea turn the game around after the break.

"I give credit to the boys, credit to Jorginho," said Chelsea striker Abraham. "In the first 30 minutes they dominated the ball... then this man (Jorginho) comes on and it's a whole different ball game. Him coming on lifted us as a team."

Abraham saw one effort blocked and another saved by Leno in the second half, while Arsenal substitute Joe Willock fired narrowly wide.

Arsenal complained when Jorginho, already booked, brought down Lucas Torreira, but referee Craig Pawson did not issue a second yellow card.

Then with the clock ticking down Leno missed his punch as he tried to reach Mason Mount's free kick, allowing Jorginho a simple tap-in at the far post.

Abraham and Willian broke at lightning pace and combined for the English striker to net the second against a shell-shocked Arsenal, his 12th league goal of the campaign.

For the first time since 1959, Arsenal suffered a fourth consecutive home defeat, across all competitions.

"I'm really disappointed with the result and the way we conceded the goals and the timing of it as well," said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-arteta-aims-to-solve-ozil-issue-as-chelsea-clash-looms-270702">Arteta</a>.

"I'm pleased with a lot of things we trained on and saw in the game, but disappointed with the result. We have to move on."

Chelsea produced a stunning late comeback to beat Arsenal 2-1 in the Premier League on Sunday, consigning Mikel Arteta to defeat on his home debut as coach of the north London side.

Chelsea produced a stunning late comeback to beat Arsenal 2-1 in the Premier League on Sunday, consigning Mikel Arteta to defeat on his home debut as coach of the north London side. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang gave the hosts the lead in the 13th minute but Arsenal goalkeeper Bernd Leno's howler handed Jorginho an equaliser on a plate after 83 minutes. Four minutes later, Tammy Abraham settled a bad-tempered London derby when he turned in the box and drilled through the hapless Leno's legs. Arsenal, 12th, started with great intensity, forcing Frank Lampard's tired-looking Chelsea back, until Aubameyang broke the deadlock after 13 minutes with an acrobatic header. Lampard brought on Jorginho after 34 minutes and changed from a 3-4-3 formation to 4-3-3, as he did on Boxing Day against Southampton, and it helped the visitors find a foothold at a fired-up Emirates Stadium. Fourth-place Chelsea, who lost five of their previous seven league games, had the better of the second half and when Leno blundered they quickly turned the screw to leave Arteta still hunting for his first win, following a draw at Bournemouth. After Aubameyang's opener, Alexandre Lacazette came close to adding a second but N'Golo Kante made a vital interception in front of goal. The hosts showed more spark than in recent weeks but could not capitalise and Jorginho's presence helped Chelsea turn the game around after the break. "I give credit to the boys, credit to Jorginho," said Chelsea striker Abraham. "In the first 30 minutes they dominated the ball... then this man (Jorginho) comes on and it's a whole different ball game. Him coming on lifted us as a team." Abraham saw one effort blocked and another saved by Leno in the second half, while Arsenal substitute Joe Willock fired narrowly wide. Arsenal complained when Jorginho, already booked, brought down Lucas Torreira, but referee Craig Pawson did not issue a second yellow card. Then with the clock ticking down Leno missed his punch as he tried to reach Mason Mount's free kick, allowing Jorginho a simple tap-in at the far post. Abraham and Willian broke at lightning pace and combined for the English striker to net the second against a shell-shocked Arsenal, his 12th league goal of the campaign. For the first time since 1959, Arsenal suffered a fourth consecutive home defeat, across all competitions. "I'm really disappointed with the result and the way we conceded the goals and the timing of it as well," said Arteta. "I'm pleased with a lot of things we trained on and saw in the game, but disappointed with the result. We have to move on."

Premier League: I'm really disappointed with the result: Arteta

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-manchester-united-up-to-fifth-with-2-0-win-at-burnley-270810">Manchester United</a> midfielder Paul Pogba is set to return for their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-west-ham-sack-pellegrini-after-leicester-defeat-270816">Premier League</a> visit to Arsenal on New Year's Day after sitting out Saturday's 2-0 win over Burnley as a precaution, manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has said.

The France international returned from a long layoff injury in United's 2-0 defeat by Watford on December&nbsp;22 and played 45 minutes in their 4-1 win over Newcastle United on Boxing Day.

Pogba felt pain in his ankle after the Newcastle game but Solskjaer said the 26-year-old would be ready for United's next match.

"He's been out for a long while and he didn't feel right," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/solskjaer-says-smiles-back-on-manchester-united-faces-ahead-of-derby-266672">Solskjaer</a> told reporters. "When you've been out for such a while it's always going to take time until you're 100 per cent.

"He wasn't ready (to face Burnley) because he's not really done too many games and he's had two in a few days and he just needed another day's recovery."

United midfielder Scott McTominay damaged knee ligaments in the win over Newcastle and Solskjaer said the 23-year-old could be out of action for about a month.

"I wouldn't expect him to be back within a few weeks," the Norwegian added. "I don't know if it's three or four weeks ... We've just got to find a way through it."

United's win over Burnley lifted them to fifth in the table, while Arsenal dropped to 12th after losing to Chelsea on Sunday.

Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba is set to return for their Premier League visit to Arsenal on New Year's Day after sitting out Saturday's 2-0 win over Burnley as a precaution, manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has said.

Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba is set to return for their Premier League visit to Arsenal on New Year's Day after sitting out Saturday's 2-0 win over Burnley as a precaution, manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has said. The France international returned from a long layoff injury in United's 2-0 defeat by Watford on December 22 and played 45 minutes in their 4-1 win over Newcastle United on Boxing Day. Pogba felt pain in his ankle after the Newcastle game but Solskjaer said the 26-year-old would be ready for United's next match. "He's been out for a long while and he didn't feel right," Solskjaer told reporters. "When you've been out for such a while it's always going to take time until you're 100 per cent. "He wasn't ready (to face Burnley) because he's not really done too many games and he's had two in a few days and he just needed another day's recovery." United midfielder Scott McTominay damaged knee ligaments in the win over Newcastle and Solskjaer said the 23-year-old could be out of action for about a month. "I wouldn't expect him to be back within a few weeks," the Norwegian added. "I don't know if it's three or four weeks ... We've just got to find a way through it." United's win over Burnley lifted them to fifth in the table, while Arsenal dropped to 12th after losing to Chelsea on Sunday.

Pogba set to return for Manchester United's match against Arsenal

Arsenal's misfiring <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-arteta-aims-to-solve-ozil-issue-as-chelsea-clash-looms-270702">Mesut Ozil</a> got a boost on Sunday from their new manager Mikel Arteta who expressed confidence in the way the German playmaker was training and performing on the pitch.

The 31-year-old, the club's most expensive player on a reported $458,185&nbsp;a week, was booed off when substituted in a 3-0 loss to Manchester City two weeks ago and threw down his gloves in frustration as he left the pitch.

But when Ozil was replaced on Sunday after 76 minutes with Arsenal 1-0 up against London rivals <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-improving-saints-stun-chelsea-with-2-0-win-at-stamford-bridge-270505">Chelsea</a> - who went on to snatch victory with two late goals - he was given a raucous standing ovation at The Emirates.

"I put him in the team if I see every day that his attitude, his desire and his understanding of what we're trying to do is there and he has the will," Arteta told reporters.

The former Germany international was often left out of the team and sometimes failed to even make the bench under previous manager Unai Emery, leading to frequent speculation that his services were no longer required at the north London club.

However, on Sunday Ozil had one of his best games of an otherwise miserable season in which he has provided just one assist in 10 Premier League appearances.

He helped create numerous attacking moves until his late substitution, something Arteta appeared to appreciate.

"I am hoping that he can sustain that level every three or four days. He's put in everything he has to try to do that. I think his numbers physically have improved so much, and he's willing - that's what I see every day in training," he said.

"I know the ability, I know the player we have there."

Arteta also suggested he was happy to consider picking his team formations to bring out the best in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-company-pes-deletes-mesut-ozil-from-gaming-service-over-uighur-remarks-269142">Ozil</a>.

"The structure has to help him for him to be able to take everything that he has inside," said the Spaniard. "He needs the team to play in a certain way to facilitate and take his strengths more and more in the game. That's what we are trying to do."

But the manager showed he was prepared to wield the stick as well as the carrot and would happily leave his 2014 World Cup-winner on the sidelines if he lets his performance slip.

"If he's in a better moment than somebody else, I will pick him. The moment that this changes, then he won't play," he said.

Arsenal's misfiring Mesut Ozil got a boost on Sunday from their new manager Mikel Arteta who expressed confidence in the way the German playmaker was training and performing on the pitch.

Arsenal's misfiring Mesut Ozil got a boost on Sunday from their new manager Mikel Arteta who expressed confidence in the way the German playmaker was training and performing on the pitch. The 31-year-old, the club's most expensive player on a reported $458,185 a week, was booed off when substituted in a 3-0 loss to Manchester City two weeks ago and threw down his gloves in frustration as he left the pitch. But when Ozil was replaced on Sunday after 76 minutes with Arsenal 1-0 up against London rivals Chelsea - who went on to snatch victory with two late goals - he was given a raucous standing ovation at The Emirates. "I put him in the team if I see every day that his attitude, his desire and his understanding of what we're trying to do is there and he has the will," Arteta told reporters. The former Germany international was often left out of the team and sometimes failed to even make the bench under previous manager Unai Emery, leading to frequent speculation that his services were no longer required at the north London club. However, on Sunday Ozil had one of his best games of an otherwise miserable season in which he has provided just one assist in 10 Premier League appearances. He helped create numerous attacking moves until his late substitution, something Arteta appeared to appreciate. "I am hoping that he can sustain that level every three or four days. He's put in everything he has to try to do that. I think his numbers physically have improved so much, and he's willing - that's what I see every day in training," he said. "I know the ability, I know the player we have there." Arteta also suggested he was happy to consider picking his team formations to bring out the best in Ozil. "The structure has to help him for him to be able to take everything that he has inside," said the Spaniard. "He needs the team to play in a certain way to facilitate and take his strengths more and more in the game. That's what we are trying to do." But the manager showed he was prepared to wield the stick as well as the carrot and would happily leave his 2014 World Cup-winner on the sidelines if he lets his performance slip. "If he's in a better moment than somebody else, I will pick him. The moment that this changes, then he won't play," he said.

I am hoping Ozil can sustain his level every three or four days: Arteta

Mikel Arteta has backed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-can-censor-ozil-but-cannot-hide-human-rights-violations-against-uighurs-pompeo-268791">Mesut Ozil</a> to make the most of his fresh start as Arsenal's new manager prepares for his home debut against Chelsea on Sunday.

Ozil has become a polarising figure at Arsenal after several seasons of lacklustre performances from the German playmaker.

He was a peripheral figure under former Gunners boss Unai Emery and looked destined to leave the club in January.

The 31-year-old was left out for Freddie Ljungberg's final game as interim manager against Everton after reacting angrily to being substituted in the 3-0 loss to Manchester City.

But Arteta restored Ozil to his starting line-up for his first match in charge as Arsenal salvaged a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-aubameyang-goal-earns-artetas-arsenal-draw-at-bournemouth-270498">1-1 draw at Bournemouth</a> on Thursday.

Former City assistant coach Arteta, who was in the opposition dugout on December 15 when Ozil kicked his gloves having being replaced, has been encouraged by the mentality of the German World Cup winner since he took charge.

"To be fair his attitude in training since the day that I walked in the building has been incredible, and I've seen this," Arteta said.

"I said I was going to give a clean slate to everybody and it was fair as well to give it to him.

"When we did the game preparation and we were watching the opponents, and where we could hurt them, we believed that he could be a key point. And we prepared the game like this, with him.

"He responded, he did what he had to do and we could have put two or three goals because of him in the net."

Ozil antics&nbsp;

Given his previous antics, it was notable that Ozil was substituted without protest 15 minutes from full-time at Bournemouth after Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang had cancelled out Dan Gosling's opener.

Ozil later expressed support for the methods of his new manager, finishing a tweet with the words "Let's trust the process".

Now <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-arsenal-boss-arteta-demands-accountability-from-players-269895">Arteta</a> hopes his faith in Ozil is rewarded with a commanding display in the London derby against fourth-placed Chelsea.

Arsenal are eight points behind Chelsea in the race to qualify for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-final-16-draw-date-rules-possible-scenarios-for-english-teams-and-all-you-need-to-know-268455">Champions League</a> via a top-four finish.

A win against Frank Lampard's side would breathe a little life into Arsenal's fading bid to return to Europe's elite club competition.

And they face Chelsea at an opportune moment after the Blues slumped to a &nbsp;2-0 home defeat to Southampton on Thursday.

It was the latest tepid effort from Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, leading Lampard to again question whether his players have the quality required to break down defensive opponents.

The result was even more disappointing for Lampard as it came just days after Chelsea delivered the best performance of his reign in their 2-0 win at Tottenham.

Callum Hudson-Odoi had been called into the team to face Southampton but, not for the first time this season, the winger was underwhelming.

Lampard retains faith in the 19-year-old, who missed time this season with a heel injury.

"I thought he put in a lot of effort; he was trying things and making runs," Lampard said.

"It wasn't quite coming off for him in the first half, and overall in fact.

"He's coming off the back of a big injury and this is certainly a period where we have to stick with him through that."

Mikel Arteta has backed Mesut Ozil to make the most of his fresh start as Arsenal's new manager prepares for his home debut against Chelsea on Sunday. Ozil has become a polarising figure at Arsenal after several seasons of lacklustre performances from the German playmaker.

Mikel Arteta has backed Mesut Ozil to make the most of his fresh start as Arsenal's new manager prepares for his home debut against Chelsea on Sunday. Ozil has become a polarising figure at Arsenal after several seasons of lacklustre performances from the German playmaker. He was a peripheral figure under former Gunners boss Unai Emery and looked destined to leave the club in January. The 31-year-old was left out for Freddie Ljungberg's final game as interim manager against Everton after reacting angrily to being substituted in the 3-0 loss to Manchester City. But Arteta restored Ozil to his starting line-up for his first match in charge as Arsenal salvaged a 1-1 draw at Bournemouth on Thursday. Former City assistant coach Arteta, who was in the opposition dugout on December 15 when Ozil kicked his gloves having being replaced, has been encouraged by the mentality of the German World Cup winner since he took charge. "To be fair his attitude in training since the day that I walked in the building has been incredible, and I've seen this," Arteta said. "I said I was going to give a clean slate to everybody and it was fair as well to give it to him. "When we did the game preparation and we were watching the opponents, and where we could hurt them, we believed that he could be a key point. And we prepared the game like this, with him. "He responded, he did what he had to do and we could have put two or three goals because of him in the net." Ozil antics Given his previous antics, it was notable that Ozil was substituted without protest 15 minutes from full-time at Bournemouth after Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang had cancelled out Dan Gosling's opener. Ozil later expressed support for the methods of his new manager, finishing a tweet with the words "Let's trust the process". Now Arteta hopes his faith in Ozil is rewarded with a commanding display in the London derby against fourth-placed Chelsea. Arsenal are eight points behind Chelsea in the race to qualify for the Champions League via a top-four finish. A win against Frank Lampard's side would breathe a little life into Arsenal's fading bid to return to Europe's elite club competition. And they face Chelsea at an opportune moment after the Blues slumped to a 2-0 home defeat to Southampton on Thursday. It was the latest tepid effort from Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, leading Lampard to again question whether his players have the quality required to break down defensive opponents. The result was even more disappointing for Lampard as it came just days after Chelsea delivered the best performance of his reign in their 2-0 win at Tottenham. Callum Hudson-Odoi had been called into the team to face Southampton but, not for the first time this season, the winger was underwhelming. Lampard retains faith in the 19-year-old, who missed time this season with a heel injury. "I thought he put in a lot of effort; he was trying things and making runs," Lampard said. "It wasn't quite coming off for him in the first half, and overall in fact. "He's coming off the back of a big injury and this is certainly a period where we have to stick with him through that."

Arteta aims to solve Ozil issue as Chelsea clash looms

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola said on Monday that he was planning to stay with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-chelseas-frank-lampard-savours-win-over-old-mentor-jose-mourinho-269624">Premier League</a> club next season amid talk that he would leave the champions at the end of the current campaign.

The Spaniard, who has never managed a club for more than four years, denied reports earlier this month that his contract until 2021 contained a 'break clause' that could allow him to leave at the end of the season.

City's hopes of a third successive league title look slim with Guardiola's side trailing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-end-sensational-year-as-roberto-firminos-extra-time-goal-seals-club-world-cup-269525">Liverpool</a> by 11 points and the 48-year-old said his future at the club was not entirely down to him.

"This is my fourth season, next season will be the fifth because I try to stay next season. It is a long time," Guardiola told reporters ahead of Friday's trip to Wolverhampton Wanderers.

"I am incredibly good here. I have to see if I deserve a new contract. The level has increased a lot and expectations are higher and we have to see if we can handle it. It is not just up to me.

"Now we have a break with the family and prepare (for) Wolves and the rest. We have time to think about it in the future."

City face Wolves who are sixth in the standings and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-guardiola-takes-dig-at-premier-league-says-thank-you-for-busy-festive-season-269649">Guardiola</a> praised their manager Nuno Espirito Santo who has overseen only one loss in their last 13 league matches.

"Wolves is always one of the toughest opponents," Guardiola said. "What Nuno is doing is incredible. It is one of the toughest games and at home they are incredibly organised with pace up front.

"Hopefully we can maintain the level of the last weeks and last games."

Guardiola's also touched upon his long-time assistant manager Mikel Arteta, who replaced Unai Emery as manager at Arsenal last week.

"He's now Arsenal manager," Guardiola added. "We prepared the Leicester game without him and tried to work the way we have the last years. We will work a little bit harder, that's all."

Guardiola confirmed midfielder Kevin De Bruyne was not injured after he hobbled off with a cramp during Saturday's win over Leicester City but David Silva, Sergio Aguero and John Stones remain sidelined.

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola said on Monday that he was planning to stay with the Premier League club next season amid talk that he would leave the champions at the end of the current campaign.

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola said on Monday that he was planning to stay with the Premier League club next season amid talk that he would leave the champions at the end of the current campaign. The Spaniard, who has never managed a club for more than four years, denied reports earlier this month that his contract until 2021 contained a 'break clause' that could allow him to leave at the end of the season. City's hopes of a third successive league title look slim with Guardiola's side trailing Liverpool by 11 points and the 48-year-old said his future at the club was not entirely down to him. "This is my fourth season, next season will be the fifth because I try to stay next season. It is a long time," Guardiola told reporters ahead of Friday's trip to Wolverhampton Wanderers. "I am incredibly good here. I have to see if I deserve a new contract. The level has increased a lot and expectations are higher and we have to see if we can handle it. It is not just up to me. "Now we have a break with the family and prepare (for) Wolves and the rest. We have time to think about it in the future." City face Wolves who are sixth in the standings and Guardiola praised their manager Nuno Espirito Santo who has overseen only one loss in their last 13 league matches. "Wolves is always one of the toughest opponents," Guardiola said. "What Nuno is doing is incredible. It is one of the toughest games and at home they are incredibly organised with pace up front. "Hopefully we can maintain the level of the last weeks and last games." Guardiola's also touched upon his long-time assistant manager Mikel Arteta, who replaced Unai Emery as manager at Arsenal last week. "He's now Arsenal manager," Guardiola added. "We prepared the Leicester game without him and tried to work the way we have the last years. We will work a little bit harder, that's all." Guardiola confirmed midfielder Kevin De Bruyne was not injured after he hobbled off with a cramp during Saturday's win over Leicester City but David Silva, Sergio Aguero and John Stones remain sidelined.

I have to see if I deserve a new contract: Pep Guardiola

Arsenal&nbsp;have&nbsp;a squad that can be improved but the&nbsp;players&nbsp;must take up responsibility and be accountable for their actions on the pitch if they are to be a part of the club's future plans,&nbsp;new&nbsp;manager Mikel&nbsp;Arteta&nbsp;said on Monday.

In his first&nbsp;news conference last week,&nbsp;Arteta&nbsp;had demanded "passion and energy"&nbsp;from&nbsp;the&nbsp;players&nbsp;and the Spaniard said he was satisfied with what he saw during Saturday's 0-0 draw at Everton.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-citys-guardiola-expects-quick-decision-on-arteta-over-arsenal-move-268874">Arteta</a>, 37, will make his managerial debut when 11th-placed&nbsp;Arsenal&nbsp;travel to Bournemouth on Thursday.

"I think that we have a really good team with a lot to improve,"&nbsp;Arteta&nbsp;told reporters. "I need them all on board. All the meetings we've had is to get everyone on board and so far I'm very happy with the reaction."

"What we are going to transmit to the team is&nbsp;accountability&nbsp;to play for this football club. This is the basic... We are much more committed. The body language (in the Everton draw) was much better and they had much more passion, that is non-negotiable."

Arteta&nbsp;confirmed interim&nbsp;boss&nbsp;Freddie Ljungberg, who took charge for six games following <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sacked-unai-emery-honoured-to-coach-arsenal-265333">Unai Emery</a>'s sacking, will stay on as a member of the coaching staff.

"I spoke to him after the game,"&nbsp;Arteta&nbsp;added. "I told him who I want to bring in and I wanted to know what he was feeling. We decided the best thing would be for him to carry on with us.

"I knew&nbsp;him a little and we will start a&nbsp;new&nbsp;chapter and he was very positive."

Arteta&nbsp;also said midfielder <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-can-censor-ozil-but-cannot-hide-human-rights-violations-against-uighurs-pompeo-268791">Mesut Ozil</a> was a part of his plans despite Ljungberg's unhappiness over the German's conduct during&nbsp;Arsenal's 3-0 defeat by Manchester City earlier this month.

Ozil kicked his gloves in frustration after being withdrawn in the 59th minute and Ljungberg said his unacceptable conduct would have prevented him&nbsp;from&nbsp;being selected at Everton had he been fit for the match.

"It's a question for Freddie,"&nbsp;Arteta&nbsp;said. "I just wanted him to pick the best possible lineup for the game. You're not going to be judged on what you done in the past, positive or negative.

"We will try to put the most competitive team out, we are to be ready and nullify them as much as possible."

Arsenal have a squad that can be improved but the players must take up responsibility and be accountable for their actions on the pitch if they are to be a part of the club's future plans, new manager Mikel Arteta said on Monday.

Arsenal have a squad that can be improved but the players must take up responsibility and be accountable for their actions on the pitch if they are to be a part of the club's future plans, new manager Mikel Arteta said on Monday. In his first news conference last week, Arteta had demanded "passion and energy" from the players and the Spaniard said he was satisfied with what he saw during Saturday's 0-0 draw at Everton. Arteta, 37, will make his managerial debut when 11th-placed Arsenal travel to Bournemouth on Thursday. "I think that we have a really good team with a lot to improve," Arteta told reporters. "I need them all on board. All the meetings we've had is to get everyone on board and so far I'm very happy with the reaction." "What we are going to transmit to the team is accountability to play for this football club. This is the basic... We are much more committed. The body language (in the Everton draw) was much better and they had much more passion, that is non-negotiable." Arteta confirmed interim boss Freddie Ljungberg, who took charge for six games following Unai Emery's sacking, will stay on as a member of the coaching staff. "I spoke to him after the game," Arteta added. "I told him who I want to bring in and I wanted to know what he was feeling. We decided the best thing would be for him to carry on with us. "I knew him a little and we will start a new chapter and he was very positive." Arteta also said midfielder Mesut Ozil was a part of his plans despite Ljungberg's unhappiness over the German's conduct during Arsenal's 3-0 defeat by Manchester City earlier this month. Ozil kicked his gloves in frustration after being withdrawn in the 59th minute and Ljungberg said his unacceptable conduct would have prevented him from being selected at Everton had he been fit for the match. "It's a question for Freddie," Arteta said. "I just wanted him to pick the best possible lineup for the game. You're not going to be judged on what you done in the past, positive or negative. "We will try to put the most competitive team out, we are to be ready and nullify them as much as possible."

New Arsenal boss Arteta demands accountability from players

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pep-guardiola-denies-presence-of-break-clause-in-contract-with-manchester-city-268224">Guardiola</a>&nbsp;said&nbsp;Arteta&nbsp;will be at Oxford United on Wednesday for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-gabriel-jesus-hat-trick-gives-man-city-4-1-win-at-dinamo-zagreb-267832">City</a>'s League Cup quarter-final but appears resigned to the prospect of losing his right-hand man.

"I think it (the&nbsp;decision) is going to happen&nbsp;quick,"&nbsp;Guardiola&nbsp;was quoted as saying by the BBC. "Why not [go]? It's a good argument."

Former&nbsp;Arsenal&nbsp;captain&nbsp;Arteta&nbsp;is the leading candidate to succeed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/unai-emery-axed-as-arsenal-boss-after-worst-run-in-decades-265245">Unai Emery</a> as&nbsp;Arsenal&nbsp;manager after the London club's chief executive Vinai Venkatesham was pictured outside the 37-year-old's house in the early hours of Monday morning.

"Mikel is travelling to Oxford with us tomorrow,"&nbsp;Guardiola&nbsp;earlier told reporters. We were so smart to pick him up and the other clubs missed it. He's an incredible person, good manager. Work ethic. That's why he is what he is.

"He's talking with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-arsenal-stage-comeback-to-sink-west-ham-and-end-winless-run-267402">Arsenal</a>&nbsp;so I don't know. Now he is part of our group and staff and he is here. When we have new news, I will know and you will know. Now he is here, tomorrow travelling. He trained today and that's all."

Spaniard&nbsp;Arteta&nbsp;made 149 appearances for&nbsp;Arsenal&nbsp;before joining City's coaching staff in 2016 where he has enjoyed a successful spell as assistant to&nbsp;Guardiola, helping the club to consecutive Premier League titles&nbsp;over&nbsp;the last two seasons.

Guardiola&nbsp;said he had spoken to&nbsp;Arteta&nbsp;about the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mesut-ozil-deceived-by-fake-news-will-be-pleased-to-see-him-go-to-xinjiang-china-268547">Arsenal</a>&nbsp;opportunity and would not stand in his way.

"I am a guy who lets people live with freedom and do what they want because that is what they want in the moment, for their lives, family, professionally and individually," he said.

"Mikel knows exactly what we think about him. After that, we cannot do more."

Guardiola said Arteta will be at Oxford United on Wednesday for City's League Cup quarter-final but appears resigned to the prospect of losing his right-hand man.

Guardiola said Arteta will be at Oxford United on Wednesday for City's League Cup quarter-final but appears resigned to the prospect of losing his right-hand man. "I think it (the decision) is going to happen quick," Guardiola was quoted as saying by the BBC. "Why not [go]? It's a good argument." Former Arsenal captain Arteta is the leading candidate to succeed Unai Emery as Arsenal manager after the London club's chief executive Vinai Venkatesham was pictured outside the 37-year-old's house in the early hours of Monday morning. "Mikel is travelling to Oxford with us tomorrow," Guardiola earlier told reporters. We were so smart to pick him up and the other clubs missed it. He's an incredible person, good manager. Work ethic. That's why he is what he is. "He's talking with Arsenal so I don't know. Now he is part of our group and staff and he is here. When we have new news, I will know and you will know. Now he is here, tomorrow travelling. He trained today and that's all." Spaniard Arteta made 149 appearances for Arsenal before joining City's coaching staff in 2016 where he has enjoyed a successful spell as assistant to Guardiola, helping the club to consecutive Premier League titles over the last two seasons. Guardiola said he had spoken to Arteta about the Arsenal opportunity and would not stand in his way. "I am a guy who lets people live with freedom and do what they want because that is what they want in the moment, for their lives, family, professionally and individually," he said. "Mikel knows exactly what we think about him. After that, we cannot do more."

Manchester City's Pep Guardiola expects quick decision on Arteta over Arsenal move

Arsenal's star Mesut Ozil, a German footballer of Turkish origin, on Friday expressed support for Uighurs in Xinjiang and criticised Muslim countries for their failure to speak up for them.

Arsenal's star Mesut Ozil, a German footballer of Turkish origin, on Friday expressed support for Uighurs in Xinjiang and criticised Muslim countries for their failure to speak up for them. "Korans are being burnt... Mosques are being shut down ... Muslim schools are being banned ... Religious scholars are being killed one by one ... Brothers are forcefully being sent to camps," Ozil wrote in Turkish on his Twitter account. "The Muslims are silent. Their voice is not heard," he wrote on a background of a blue field with a white crescent moon, the flag of what Uighur separatists call East Turkestan. Meanwhile, Arsenal have distanced themselves from comments made by Mesut Özil. Arsenal, which has numerous commercial interests including a chain of restaurants, tried to limit the damage by releasing a statement on Weibo – a leading Chinese social media site – as well as other platforms stressing it is apolitical and does not associate itself with Özil’s views. Around 10 million live in Xinjiang and there are claims that more than a million have been held in detention camps over recent years. Özil’s post had listed a range of the issues facing Uighurs in China, accusing other Muslims of staying silent on the subject. In his tweet, Ozil said Western states and media had kept the Uighurs issue on their agenda and added: "what will be remembered years later would not be the torture by the tyrants but the silence of their Muslim brothers."

Arsenal star Mesut Ozil condemns Muslim silence over Uighurs

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-arsenal-slump-to-first-home-defeat-by-brighton-266535">Arsenal</a> scored three quickfire second-half goals through Gabriel Martinelli, Nicolas Pepe and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to beat West Ham United 3-1 away as they ended a seven-match winless run in the Premier League on Monday.

After a poor start to the game by both sides, the Hammers took the lead seven minutes before the break when Angelo Ogbonna charged into a crowded box to head home a Pablo Fornals cross at the London Stadium.

But Arsenal, with interim coach Freddie Ljungberg searching for his first win since taking over from the sacked Unai Emery, equalised on the hour thanks to a sharp finish from Brazilian Martinelli, his first <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/late-fernandez-strike-gives-newcastle-2-1-win-over-southampton-267124">Premier League</a> goal.

Six minutes later record signing Pepe put the visitors ahead with a superb curling shot into the far corner after being set up by a clever back-heel from Aubameyang.

The pair reversed roles for Arsenal's third with Frenchman Pepe chipping a cross into the box and Aubameyang volleying home on the turn after 69 minutes.

"It means so much for the players. They have been living under enormous pressure and you see it in their performances," said Ljungberg.

"You can see the players have been a bit low and you see in the dressing room the relief and how happy they are. We enjoy tonight and we continue working tomorrow. We have to work on our belief -- that was the difference," he said.

The win took Arsenal up to ninth on 22 points from 16 games, while West Ham's third straight home loss leaves them in 16th place on 16 points, only a point above the relegation zone, and increases the pressure on Chilean manager Manuel Pellegrini.

The former <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-not-on-par-with-european-elite-says-guardiola-267118">Manchester City</a> boss said he was sure he could turn the club's fortunes around, however.

"The pressure for me is exactly the same if we win or lose. When you don't have results things are more difficult. If I had not seen the team play the way they did in the first 65 minutes, I might have doubts," he added.

"For 60 minutes there was just one team on the pitch. But football can be like this.

"We made mistakes in moments of defending. The problem was a lack of patience and quality to decide the game with a second goal and we made important mistakes in defence," he added.

Arsenal scored three quickfire second-half goals through Gabriel Martinelli, Nicolas Pepe and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to beat West Ham United 3-1 away as they ended a seven-match winless run in the Premier League on Monday.

Arsenal scored three quickfire second-half goals through Gabriel Martinelli, Nicolas Pepe and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang to beat West Ham United 3-1 away as they ended a seven-match winless run in the Premier League on Monday. After a poor start to the game by both sides, the Hammers took the lead seven minutes before the break when Angelo Ogbonna charged into a crowded box to head home a Pablo Fornals cross at the London Stadium. But Arsenal, with interim coach Freddie Ljungberg searching for his first win since taking over from the sacked Unai Emery, equalised on the hour thanks to a sharp finish from Brazilian Martinelli, his first Premier League goal. Six minutes later record signing Pepe put the visitors ahead with a superb curling shot into the far corner after being set up by a clever back-heel from Aubameyang. The pair reversed roles for Arsenal's third with Frenchman Pepe chipping a cross into the box and Aubameyang volleying home on the turn after 69 minutes. "It means so much for the players. They have been living under enormous pressure and you see it in their performances," said Ljungberg. "You can see the players have been a bit low and you see in the dressing room the relief and how happy they are. We enjoy tonight and we continue working tomorrow. We have to work on our belief -- that was the difference," he said. The win took Arsenal up to ninth on 22 points from 16 games, while West Ham's third straight home loss leaves them in 16th place on 16 points, only a point above the relegation zone, and increases the pressure on Chilean manager Manuel Pellegrini. The former Manchester City boss said he was sure he could turn the club's fortunes around, however. "The pressure for me is exactly the same if we win or lose. When you don't have results things are more difficult. If I had not seen the team play the way they did in the first 65 minutes, I might have doubts," he added. "For 60 minutes there was just one team on the pitch. But football can be like this. "We made mistakes in moments of defending. The problem was a lack of patience and quality to decide the game with a second goal and we made important mistakes in defence," he added.

Premier League: Arsenal stage comeback to sink West Ham and end winless run

Arsenal lost to Brighton &amp; Hove Albion at home for the first time ever on Thursday night as goals by Adam Webster and Neal Maupay lifted the visitors to a 2-1 victory in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-liverpool-enjoy-derby-demolition-as-it-sets-new-club-record-leicester-still-chasing-266306">Premier League</a>.

Arsenal, who <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sacked-unai-emery-honoured-to-coach-arsenal-265333">fired Unai Emery</a> as manager last week and appointed former player Freddie Ljungberg as caretaker boss, now sit 10th in the table on 19 points, with Brighton a single point behind and three places below them.

"Of course, it's disappointing but we've got to keep on going," Ljungberg told reporters. "The players are low on confidence, I think you can see that.

"We're in a difficult situation. We started the game flat with no energy. It's my job to get them to be aggressive and play with energy."

Brighton had an early chance when Arsenal defender Hector Bellerin brought down Aaron Connolly on the edge of the area, but Pascal Gross blasted his free kick straight into the Arsenal wall.

The visitors poured forward, with Maupay whipping in a shot from a tight angle that raced narrowly past keeper Bernd Leno's far post.

Their pressure finally paid off in the 36th minute when centre back Webster pounced on the ball as it broke loose after a corner, poking home past Leno to give the visitors the lead.

Arsenal's Alexandre Lacazette equalised five minutes into the second half with a high looping header from a Mesut Ozil corner which bounced in off the far post.

The home side briefly thought they had taken the lead when David Luiz shanked the ball home from a free kick, only for the Brazilian to be found clearly offside by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-rule-makers-look-at-ways-of-providing-more-information-about-var-decisions-266170">VAR</a>.

Instead, Brighton's Maupay headed a cross from Aaron Mooy into the far corner past Leno in the 80th minute to give Potter's side a historic win in north London.

"It's fantastic to get the three points here tonight," Potter told reporters.

"I'm proud of the players. They stuck at it and managed the situations quite well, and played well against some talented players, and a nice winning goal - a bit of quality from us," he added.

"Maybe it gives us confidence that we're on the path to doing something."

Arsenal lost to Brighton & Hove Albion at home for the first time ever on Thursday night as goals by Adam Webster and Neal Maupay lifted the visitors to a 2-1 victory in the Premier League.

Arsenal lost to Brighton & Hove Albion at home for the first time ever on Thursday night as goals by Adam Webster and Neal Maupay lifted the visitors to a 2-1 victory in the Premier League. Arsenal, who fired Unai Emery as manager last week and appointed former player Freddie Ljungberg as caretaker boss, now sit 10th in the table on 19 points, with Brighton a single point behind and three places below them. "Of course, it's disappointing but we've got to keep on going," Ljungberg told reporters. "The players are low on confidence, I think you can see that. "We're in a difficult situation. We started the game flat with no energy. It's my job to get them to be aggressive and play with energy." Brighton had an early chance when Arsenal defender Hector Bellerin brought down Aaron Connolly on the edge of the area, but Pascal Gross blasted his free kick straight into the Arsenal wall. The visitors poured forward, with Maupay whipping in a shot from a tight angle that raced narrowly past keeper Bernd Leno's far post. Their pressure finally paid off in the 36th minute when centre back Webster pounced on the ball as it broke loose after a corner, poking home past Leno to give the visitors the lead. Arsenal's Alexandre Lacazette equalised five minutes into the second half with a high looping header from a Mesut Ozil corner which bounced in off the far post. The home side briefly thought they had taken the lead when David Luiz shanked the ball home from a free kick, only for the Brazilian to be found clearly offside by VAR. Instead, Brighton's Maupay headed a cross from Aaron Mooy into the far corner past Leno in the 80th minute to give Potter's side a historic win in north London. "It's fantastic to get the three points here tonight," Potter told reporters. "I'm proud of the players. They stuck at it and managed the situations quite well, and played well against some talented players, and a nice winning goal - a bit of quality from us," he added. "Maybe it gives us confidence that we're on the path to doing something."

Premier League: Arsenal slump to first home defeat by Brighton

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/unai-emery-axed-as-arsenal-boss-after-worst-run-in-decades-265245">Unai Emery </a>said it had been an "honour" to coach Arsenal despite being sacked as manager of the Premier League club on Friday after just 18 months in charge.

The 48-year-old Spaniard was fired following the 2-1 home defeat to Eintracht Frankfurt in Thursday's Europa League match, which extended their winless run to seven games.

Assistant Freddie Ljungberg has taken over as interim manager with ex-Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri and Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo among the early favourites to be named the next full-time boss.

Despite his sacking, Emery insisted it had been an "honour" to manage the London giants.

"It has been a year and a half full of emotions, of great moments and some other more bitter ones," he said.

"But not a single day has gone by without me stopping to think about how lucky I have been to work for this club with these players and their professional and personal qualities."

Former Arsenal player Ljungberg said he would work hard to improve the atmosphere at Arsenal.

"However long I oversee @Arsenal I will give everything I have to put smiles on faces again," he tweeted. "We have a busy few weeks ahead and the team needs your support. Let's get to work!"

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However long I oversee <a href="https://twitter.com/Arsenal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Arsenal</a> for I will give everything I have to put smiles on faces again. We have a busy few weeks ahead and the team needs your support. Let’s get to work! <a href="https://t.co/WdekcA4h5G">pic.twitter.com/WdekcA4h5G</a>
— Freddie Ljungberg (@freddie) <a href="https://twitter.com/freddie/status/1200401047572897792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Arsenal are on their worst run without a victory since 1992, when they went eight games without a win under George Graham.

They are already eight points off the top four after failing to win a Premier League match since October 6.

Emery was appointed as successor to Arsene Wenger in May 2018 after a trophy-laden career at Sevilla and Paris Saint-Germain with a brief to make Arsenal a Premier League force again.

The club, who have not won the Premier League since 2004, had stagnated in the final years of Wenger's 22-year reign despite a series of cup triumphs.

But Arsenal could only finish fifth last season, missing out on the riches of the Champions League for a third straight year.

Big spenders&nbsp;

Emery spent more than £130 million ($168 million) in the close-season, bringing in a clutch of players including winger Nicolas Pepe, centre-back David Luiz and left-back Kieran Tierney.

But despite the reinforcements they have collected just 18 points from 13 games so far this season.

Emery has had many off-field issues to contend with, losing Aaron Ramsey on a free transfer to Juventus at the end of last season.

He then saw former captain Laurent Koscielny refuse to travel on a pre-season tour to the United States as he pushed through a move away from north London.

Granit Xhaka was named as his successor but he was stripped of the captaincy after swearing at supporters who jeered him following his substitution in a 2-2 draw with Crystal Palace last month.

There was also upheaval behind the scenes as two of the men who made the decision to appoint Emery, chief executive Ivan Gazidis and head of recruitment Sven Mislintat, departed within nine months.

And the attempted carjacking of Mesut Ozil and Sead Kolasinac on the eve of the new season played a role in unsettling the squad.

Emery is the third Premier League manager to lose his job this season after the dismissals of Watford's Javi Gracia and Tottenham's Mauricio Pochettino.

The Arsenal Supporters' Trust issued a statement saying the club needed to change more than its manager.

"Emery's departure is the easy part," it said. "The more difficult challenge is to recruit a suitable successor. We are far from certain that Arsenal has the right personnel to lead this process.

"The AST has long been advocating that the most important changes needed at Arsenal are in the boardroom, where Arsenal need better governance."

Unai Emery said it had been an "honour" to coach Arsenal despite being sacked as manager of the Premier League club on Friday after just 18 months in charge. The 48-year-old Spaniard was fired following the 2-1 home defeat to Eintracht Frankfurt in Thursday's Europa League match, which extended their winless run to seven games.

Unai Emery said it had been an "honour" to coach Arsenal despite being sacked as manager of the Premier League club on Friday after just 18 months in charge. The 48-year-old Spaniard was fired following the 2-1 home defeat to Eintracht Frankfurt in Thursday's Europa League match, which extended their winless run to seven games. Assistant Freddie Ljungberg has taken over as interim manager with ex-Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri and Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo among the early favourites to be named the next full-time boss. Despite his sacking, Emery insisted it had been an "honour" to manage the London giants. "It has been a year and a half full of emotions, of great moments and some other more bitter ones," he said. "But not a single day has gone by without me stopping to think about how lucky I have been to work for this club with these players and their professional and personal qualities." Former Arsenal player Ljungberg said he would work hard to improve the atmosphere at Arsenal. "However long I oversee @Arsenal I will give everything I have to put smiles on faces again," he tweeted. "We have a busy few weeks ahead and the team needs your support. Let's get to work!" However long I oversee @Arsenal for I will give everything I have to put smiles on faces again. We have a busy few weeks ahead and the team needs your support. Let’s get to work! pic.twitter.com/WdekcA4h5G — Freddie Ljungberg (@freddie) November 29, 2019 × Arsenal are on their worst run without a victory since 1992, when they went eight games without a win under George Graham. They are already eight points off the top four after failing to win a Premier League match since October 6. Emery was appointed as successor to Arsene Wenger in May 2018 after a trophy-laden career at Sevilla and Paris Saint-Germain with a brief to make Arsenal a Premier League force again. The club, who have not won the Premier League since 2004, had stagnated in the final years of Wenger's 22-year reign despite a series of cup triumphs. But Arsenal could only finish fifth last season, missing out on the riches of the Champions League for a third straight year. Big spenders Emery spent more than £130 million ($168 million) in the close-season, bringing in a clutch of players including winger Nicolas Pepe, centre-back David Luiz and left-back Kieran Tierney. But despite the reinforcements they have collected just 18 points from 13 games so far this season. Emery has had many off-field issues to contend with, losing Aaron Ramsey on a free transfer to Juventus at the end of last season. He then saw former captain Laurent Koscielny refuse to travel on a pre-season tour to the United States as he pushed through a move away from north London. Granit Xhaka was named as his successor but he was stripped of the captaincy after swearing at supporters who jeered him following his substitution in a 2-2 draw with Crystal Palace last month. There was also upheaval behind the scenes as two of the men who made the decision to appoint Emery, chief executive Ivan Gazidis and head of recruitment Sven Mislintat, departed within nine months. And the attempted carjacking of Mesut Ozil and Sead Kolasinac on the eve of the new season played a role in unsettling the squad. Emery is the third Premier League manager to lose his job this season after the dismissals of Watford's Javi Gracia and Tottenham's Mauricio Pochettino. The Arsenal Supporters' Trust issued a statement saying the club needed to change more than its manager. "Emery's departure is the easy part," it said. "The more difficult challenge is to recruit a suitable successor. We are far from certain that Arsenal has the right personnel to lead this process. "The AST has long been advocating that the most important changes needed at Arsenal are in the boardroom, where Arsenal need better governance."

Sacked Unai Emery 'honoured' to have coached Arsenal

Unai Emery's future as Arsenal coach was plunged into further doubt on Thursday when the Gunners slumped to a 2-1 loss in the Europa League against Eintracht Frankfurt but the Spaniard said he did not fear for his job.

Arsenal are now winless in seven games, the club's worst run since 1992.

Emery shrugged off multiple questions regarding his position during the post-match press conference.

"Now our moment is not good. We need to win, take confidence and I think we are better than we are showing. The players, the coaches and myself," 48-year-old Emery said.

"I am thinking about the next match (against Norwich on Sunday) and how we can improve.

"My work and my job is firstly analysing that match, how we are in the Europa League, in our feelings and how we are going to play on Sunday."

Japan midfielder Daichi Kamada scored a second-half double for Eintracht after captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang had opened the scoring in first-half injury time for Arsenal inside a half-full Emirates Stadium.

Boos from the lowest attendance at the ground since it opened in 2006 greeted Emery and his misfiring team at the final whistle while some disgruntled fans held up banners demanding 'Emery Out'.

Aubameyang struck home just before the half-time whistle with a low effort for his ninth goal in 14 matches.

Kamada's equaliser came 10 minutes later as he curled a tidy shot past Emiliano Martinez before adding his second on 64 minutes with a drive from outside the box to inflict a first home defeat of the campaign on Emery's men.

The Gunners are still on course for a last 32 place if they draw with Standard Liege on December 12.

Scottish champions Celtic clinched top spot in Group E with a 3-1 win over Rennes while Wolves reached the knockout stages with a 3-3 draw at fellow qualifiers Braga in Group K.

Rangers drew 2-2 at Feyenoord to hold top spot in Group G with a one-point lead ahead of their last game against Young Boys.

Earlier, Roma's Lorenzo Pellegrini was hit by coins as the Italian club kept their last 32 hopes alive with a 3-0 victory at Istanbul Basaksehir.

Attacking midfielder Pellegrini had his head bandaged after he was struck by multiple coins with an hour of the game played after Jordan Veretout, Justin Kluivert and Edin Dzeko had claimed the advantage for the Serie A outfit in Turkey.&nbsp;

The visitors remain in contention for a knock-out spot and sit behind leaders Borussia Moenchengladbach, who beat Austrians Wolfsberg 1-0, on goal difference with the Turkish side a point behind on seven.

Kazakhs teach United kids a lesson&nbsp;

Elsewhere, Kazakh champions Astana fought back to surprise a youthful Manchester United 2-1.

United captain Jesse Lingard opened the scoring, who had already reached the last 32, before Dmitri Shomko equalised for the home side.

Di'Shon Bernard, 19, then put through his own goal to hand Astana victory over a United side whose average age was just 22.

United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer made 11 changes from Sunday's draw with Sheffield United by handing senior debuts to teenagers Ethan Laird, Dylan Levitt and Bernard as well as naming cancer survivor Max Taylor on the bench.

Solskjaer said some of the youngsters on show put their hands up to feature against Alkmaar in the final round of group matches on December 12.

"At times we were excellent but there were spells when we let them push us back. That cost us in the end," he said.

"These boys have learnt a lot and have given me food for thought. I'm very pleased with many of them."

Shomko, meanwhile, told UEFA.com the result will live in his memory.

"I will be telling my grandchildren, 'you know guys a while ago I scored against Manchester United'. It does not matter who scored, really. The most important thing is that we won," he said.

Unai Emery's future as Arsenal coach was plunged into further doubt on Thursday when the Gunners slumped to a 2-1 loss in the Europa League against Eintracht Frankfurt but the Spaniard said he did not fear for his job.

Unai Emery's future as Arsenal coach was plunged into further doubt on Thursday when the Gunners slumped to a 2-1 loss in the Europa League against Eintracht Frankfurt but the Spaniard said he did not fear for his job. Arsenal are now winless in seven games, the club's worst run since 1992. Emery shrugged off multiple questions regarding his position during the post-match press conference. "Now our moment is not good. We need to win, take confidence and I think we are better than we are showing. The players, the coaches and myself," 48-year-old Emery said. "I am thinking about the next match (against Norwich on Sunday) and how we can improve. "My work and my job is firstly analysing that match, how we are in the Europa League, in our feelings and how we are going to play on Sunday." Japan midfielder Daichi Kamada scored a second-half double for Eintracht after captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang had opened the scoring in first-half injury time for Arsenal inside a half-full Emirates Stadium. Boos from the lowest attendance at the ground since it opened in 2006 greeted Emery and his misfiring team at the final whistle while some disgruntled fans held up banners demanding 'Emery Out'. Aubameyang struck home just before the half-time whistle with a low effort for his ninth goal in 14 matches. Kamada's equaliser came 10 minutes later as he curled a tidy shot past Emiliano Martinez before adding his second on 64 minutes with a drive from outside the box to inflict a first home defeat of the campaign on Emery's men. The Gunners are still on course for a last 32 place if they draw with Standard Liege on December 12. Scottish champions Celtic clinched top spot in Group E with a 3-1 win over Rennes while Wolves reached the knockout stages with a 3-3 draw at fellow qualifiers Braga in Group K. Rangers drew 2-2 at Feyenoord to hold top spot in Group G with a one-point lead ahead of their last game against Young Boys. Earlier, Roma's Lorenzo Pellegrini was hit by coins as the Italian club kept their last 32 hopes alive with a 3-0 victory at Istanbul Basaksehir. Attacking midfielder Pellegrini had his head bandaged after he was struck by multiple coins with an hour of the game played after Jordan Veretout, Justin Kluivert and Edin Dzeko had claimed the advantage for the Serie A outfit in Turkey. The visitors remain in contention for a knock-out spot and sit behind leaders Borussia Moenchengladbach, who beat Austrians Wolfsberg 1-0, on goal difference with the Turkish side a point behind on seven. Kazakhs teach United kids a lesson Elsewhere, Kazakh champions Astana fought back to surprise a youthful Manchester United 2-1. United captain Jesse Lingard opened the scoring, who had already reached the last 32, before Dmitri Shomko equalised for the home side. Di'Shon Bernard, 19, then put through his own goal to hand Astana victory over a United side whose average age was just 22. United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer made 11 changes from Sunday's draw with Sheffield United by handing senior debuts to teenagers Ethan Laird, Dylan Levitt and Bernard as well as naming cancer survivor Max Taylor on the bench. Solskjaer said some of the youngsters on show put their hands up to feature against Alkmaar in the final round of group matches on December 12. "At times we were excellent but there were spells when we let them push us back. That cost us in the end," he said. "These boys have learnt a lot and have given me food for thought. I'm very pleased with many of them." Shomko, meanwhile, told UEFA.com the result will live in his memory. "I will be telling my grandchildren, 'you know guys a while ago I scored against Manchester United'. It does not matter who scored, really. The most important thing is that we won," he said.

Unai Emery reaches breaking point as Arsenal crash in Europa League

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-arsenals-under-fire-emery-gets-clubs-public-backing-261544">Unai Emery </a>is fighting for his future at Arsenal while Everton boss Marco Silva and West Ham manager Manuel Pellegrini are running out of time.

Emery is the bookies' favourite to be the third Premier League manager to lose his job this season after the dismissals of Watford's Javi Gracia and Mauricio Pochettino by Spurs.

His future looked even bleaker on Thursday with a 2-1 home defeat to Eintracht Frankfurt in the Europa League.

Everton, according to reports, have held board-level discussions about Silva's position while Pellegrini has gone two months without a win in any competition for his misfiring Hammers.

AFP Sport looks at the three managers fighting for their lives in the Premier League this weekend.

Emery stumbles

Unai Emery was supposed to be the man to take Arsenal back to the top of the English game after years of underachievement under Arsene Wenger.

But the former Paris Saint-German manager is teetering on the brink after five Premier League matches without a win -- Arsenal are the only side in the top half of the table with a negative goal difference.

His future became even more uncertain on Thursday when they squandered a one-goal lead to lose to Eintracht Frankfurt in the Europa League, a result greeted by deafening boos around a sparsely-attended Emirates Stadium.

Having not won in any competition in seven games, it's Arsenal's worst run since 1992.

Emery, 48, was publicly backed by Arsenal's hierarchy during the international break as rivals Tottenham replaced Pochettino with Jose Mourinho.

"Now our moment is not good. We need to win, take confidence and I think we are better than we are showing. The players, the coaches and myself," the Spaniard said after Thursday's defeat.

"My work and my job is firstly analysing the match, how we are in the Europa League, how we are going to play on Sunday."

One positive for Arsenal, who could move up to fifth place if results go their way this weekend, is that they have lost just once in their past 15 visits to Norwich in all competitions.

Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo is favourite to replace Emery at the Emirates Stadium but this week refused to discuss any links with the club, saying it would be "disrespectful".

Everton search for Silva lining

Marco Silva's Everton are just two places above the relegation zone with seven defeats from their opening 13 Premier League fixtures -- and they have a hideous run of matches coming up starting with a visit to Leicester on Sunday.

Everton splashed the cash in the close season, recruiting Fabian Delph from Manchester City, Alex Iwobi from Arsenal and Moise Kean from Juventus, but they have struggled, scoring just 13 goals all season.

There have even been suggestions of a possible return to Goodison Park for former boss David Moyes.

Former Everton player Michael Ball tweeted this week that there was no way back for 42-year-old Silva, with games to come in the next few weeks against Liverpool, Chelsea and both Manchester clubs.

"Silva knows he's going, Players do, the fans do," he wrote.

"Yes it's difficult to bring someone in with that nightmare run of games but the fans need hope. Players need a fresh start &amp; ideas to give us a slight chance to pick up points."

Pellegrini's Chelsea test

Manuel Pellegrini's side have not won in any competition since September and have plummeted down the Premier League table after a bright start.

The fourth-bottom Hammers face a challenging test this weekend against in-form Chelsea. Frank Lampard's young side have won six of their past seven league matches.

"We don't talk about that," the 66-year-old former Manchester City boss said on Thursday when questioned about his future. "You have to very clear what you must do, game by game.

"Football changes all the time. We are working to try to beat Chelsea and after that, we will see the result."

Goalkeeper Roberto has taken much of the flak for West Ham's poor run and was at fault again during last week's 3-2 home defeat by Tottenham.

Regular keeper Lukasz Fabianski is still injured, but Pellegrini gave no guarantee that he will keep faith with Roberto, meaning third-choice keeper David Martin might be pressed into action.

Fixtures

Saturday (1500 GMT unless stated)

Newcastle v Manchester City (1230), Burnley v Crystal Palace, Chelsea v West Ham, Liverpool v Brighton, Tottenham v Bournemouth, Southampton v Watford (1730)

Sunday

Norwich v Arsenal, (1400), Wolves v Sheffield Utd (1400), Leicester v Everton (1630), Manchester United v Aston Villa (1630)

Unai Emery is fighting for his future at Arsenal while Everton boss Marco Silva and West Ham manager Manuel Pellegrini are running out of time. Emery is the bookies' favourite to be the third Premier League manager to lose his job this season after the dismissals of Watford's Javi Gracia and Mauricio Pochettino by Spurs.

Unai Emery is fighting for his future at Arsenal while Everton boss Marco Silva and West Ham manager Manuel Pellegrini are running out of time. Emery is the bookies' favourite to be the third Premier League manager to lose his job this season after the dismissals of Watford's Javi Gracia and Mauricio Pochettino by Spurs. His future looked even bleaker on Thursday with a 2-1 home defeat to Eintracht Frankfurt in the Europa League. Everton, according to reports, have held board-level discussions about Silva's position while Pellegrini has gone two months without a win in any competition for his misfiring Hammers. AFP Sport looks at the three managers fighting for their lives in the Premier League this weekend. Emery stumbles Unai Emery was supposed to be the man to take Arsenal back to the top of the English game after years of underachievement under Arsene Wenger. But the former Paris Saint-German manager is teetering on the brink after five Premier League matches without a win -- Arsenal are the only side in the top half of the table with a negative goal difference. His future became even more uncertain on Thursday when they squandered a one-goal lead to lose to Eintracht Frankfurt in the Europa League, a result greeted by deafening boos around a sparsely-attended Emirates Stadium. Having not won in any competition in seven games, it's Arsenal's worst run since 1992. Emery, 48, was publicly backed by Arsenal's hierarchy during the international break as rivals Tottenham replaced Pochettino with Jose Mourinho. "Now our moment is not good. We need to win, take confidence and I think we are better than we are showing. The players, the coaches and myself," the Spaniard said after Thursday's defeat. "My work and my job is firstly analysing the match, how we are in the Europa League, how we are going to play on Sunday." One positive for Arsenal, who could move up to fifth place if results go their way this weekend, is that they have lost just once in their past 15 visits to Norwich in all competitions. Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo is favourite to replace Emery at the Emirates Stadium but this week refused to discuss any links with the club, saying it would be "disrespectful". Everton search for Silva lining Marco Silva's Everton are just two places above the relegation zone with seven defeats from their opening 13 Premier League fixtures -- and they have a hideous run of matches coming up starting with a visit to Leicester on Sunday. Everton splashed the cash in the close season, recruiting Fabian Delph from Manchester City, Alex Iwobi from Arsenal and Moise Kean from Juventus, but they have struggled, scoring just 13 goals all season. There have even been suggestions of a possible return to Goodison Park for former boss David Moyes. Former Everton player Michael Ball tweeted this week that there was no way back for 42-year-old Silva, with games to come in the next few weeks against Liverpool, Chelsea and both Manchester clubs. "Silva knows he's going, Players do, the fans do," he wrote. "Yes it's difficult to bring someone in with that nightmare run of games but the fans need hope. Players need a fresh start & ideas to give us a slight chance to pick up points." Pellegrini's Chelsea test Manuel Pellegrini's side have not won in any competition since September and have plummeted down the Premier League table after a bright start. The fourth-bottom Hammers face a challenging test this weekend against in-form Chelsea. Frank Lampard's young side have won six of their past seven league matches. "We don't talk about that," the 66-year-old former Manchester City boss said on Thursday when questioned about his future. "You have to very clear what you must do, game by game. "Football changes all the time. We are working to try to beat Chelsea and after that, we will see the result." Goalkeeper Roberto has taken much of the flak for West Ham's poor run and was at fault again during last week's 3-2 home defeat by Tottenham. Regular keeper Lukasz Fabianski is still injured, but Pellegrini gave no guarantee that he will keep faith with Roberto, meaning third-choice keeper David Martin might be pressed into action. Fixtures Saturday (1500 GMT unless stated) Newcastle v Manchester City (1230), Burnley v Crystal Palace, Chelsea v West Ham, Liverpool v Brighton, Tottenham v Bournemouth, Southampton v Watford (1730) Sunday Norwich v Arsenal, (1400), Wolves v Sheffield Utd (1400), Leicester v Everton (1630), Manchester United v Aston Villa (1630)

Unai Emery favourite for the chop as Premier League pressure mounts

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../unai-emery-favourite-for-the-chop-as-premier- league-pressure-mounts-265152">Unai Emery</a> was sacked as Arsenal manager Friday after less than two years in charge and with the club without a win in seven games, their worst run since 1992.

The 48-year-old Spaniard was fired following the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../unai-emery-reaches-breaking-point-as-arsenal- crash-in-europa-league-265159"> 2-1 home defeat to Eintracht Frankfurt</a> in Thursday's Europa League match.

His assistant Freddie Ljungberg takes over as interim manager during the search for a permanent replacement.

Arsenal fans had demanded "decisive action" from directors with the club's present run of five draws and two defeats this season just one match off equalling George Graham's run of eight without a win in 1992.&nbsp;

Club directors responded by axing the man brought in 18 months ago to revive a club stagnating after two decades under Frenchman Arsene Wenger.

"We announce today that the decision has been taken to part company with our head coach Unai Emery and his coaching team," read the statement.

"We have asked Freddie Ljungberg to take responsibility for the first team as interim head coach.

"The search for a new head coach is underway and we will make a further announcement when that process is complete."

Among those in the mix for the permanent job include former Gunners star Mikel Arteta, Pep Guardiola's assistant at champions Manchester City, ex-Juventus handler Massimiliano Allegri and Wolves Portuguese manager Nuno Espirito Santo.

Arsenal's league form has fallen away badly with five Premier League matches without a win -- they are the only side in the top half of the table with a negative goal difference.

Emery's cause has not been helped by the stripping of the captaincy from fiery Swiss international Granit Xhaka after he swore at Gunners fans when being substituted against Crystal Palace last month.

And a potential saviour, Gunners record signing Pepe, has been a huge disappointment since his £72 million ($93 million) move from French Ligue 1 outfit Lille in the close season.&nbsp;

Emery's position had looked shaky enough when north London rivals Tottenham Hotspur sacked Mauricio Pochettino last week only months after taking them to the Champions League final.

The former Paris Saint Germain handler's first season ended in disappointment. Arsenal blew two chances for a return to the Champions League, winning just one of their last five games to finish fifth in the Premier League and then losing the Europa League final 4-1 to Chelsea.

"Our most sincere thanks go to Unai and his colleagues who were unrelenting in their efforts to get the club back to competing at the level we all expect and demand," read the club statement.

"We wish Unai and his team nothing but future success. The decision has been taken due to results and performances not being at the level required."

Unai Emery was sacked as Arsenal manager Friday after less than two years in charge and with the club without a win in seven games, their worst run since 1992. The 48-year-old Spaniard was fired following the 2-1 home defeat to Eintracht Frankfurt in Thursday's Europa League match.

Unai Emery was sacked as Arsenal manager Friday after less than two years in charge and with the club without a win in seven games, their worst run since 1992. The 48-year-old Spaniard was fired following the 2-1 home defeat to Eintracht Frankfurt in Thursday's Europa League match. His assistant Freddie Ljungberg takes over as interim manager during the search for a permanent replacement. Arsenal fans had demanded "decisive action" from directors with the club's present run of five draws and two defeats this season just one match off equalling George Graham's run of eight without a win in 1992. Club directors responded by axing the man brought in 18 months ago to revive a club stagnating after two decades under Frenchman Arsene Wenger. "We announce today that the decision has been taken to part company with our head coach Unai Emery and his coaching team," read the statement. "We have asked Freddie Ljungberg to take responsibility for the first team as interim head coach. "The search for a new head coach is underway and we will make a further announcement when that process is complete." Among those in the mix for the permanent job include former Gunners star Mikel Arteta, Pep Guardiola's assistant at champions Manchester City, ex-Juventus handler Massimiliano Allegri and Wolves Portuguese manager Nuno Espirito Santo. Arsenal's league form has fallen away badly with five Premier League matches without a win -- they are the only side in the top half of the table with a negative goal difference. Emery's cause has not been helped by the stripping of the captaincy from fiery Swiss international Granit Xhaka after he swore at Gunners fans when being substituted against Crystal Palace last month. And a potential saviour, Gunners record signing Pepe, has been a huge disappointment since his £72 million ($93 million) move from French Ligue 1 outfit Lille in the close season. Emery's position had looked shaky enough when north London rivals Tottenham Hotspur sacked Mauricio Pochettino last week only months after taking them to the Champions League final. The former Paris Saint Germain handler's first season ended in disappointment. Arsenal blew two chances for a return to the Champions League, winning just one of their last five games to finish fifth in the Premier League and then losing the Europa League final 4-1 to Chelsea. "Our most sincere thanks go to Unai and his colleagues who were unrelenting in their efforts to get the club back to competing at the level we all expect and demand," read the club statement. "We wish Unai and his team nothing but future success. The decision has been taken due to results and performances not being at the level required."

Unai Emery axed as Arsenal boss after worst run in decades

Arsenal manager Unai Emery has been given the club's public backing but the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-manchester-united-earn-3-1-win-over-brighton-261290">Premier League</a> side's hierarchy has warned the Spaniard that results must improve, the BBC reported on Monday.

Emery's position is under the spotlight after two wins in Arsenal's last 10 league games with the latest setback coming in a 2-0 defeat at high-flying Leicester City on Saturday.

However, the sixth-placed London club's head of football Raul Sanllehi and managing director Vinai Venkatesham have no immediate plans to make a change of manager.

"We firmly believe Unai is the right man for the job," the BBC reported them as telling more than 200 staff from across the club at a pre-planned meeting on Monday.

"We are as disappointed as everyone else with both our results and performances at this stage of the season.

"We share the frustration with our fans, Unai, players and all our staff as they are not at the level we want or expect. Things need to improve to meet our objectives for the season."

"We are all working intensively behind the scenes to turn things around and are confident we will."

Emery, 48, was appointed as Arsene Wenger's successor in May 2018 and his first season ended with a 4-1 Europa League final loss to Chelsea, having missed out on the top four by a point.

The currently have 17 points from 12 games and are eight points adrift of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-costas-stoppage-time-gem-sends-juventus-into-last-16-260436">Champions League</a> places.

Arsenal manager Unai Emery has been given the club's public backing but the Premier League side's hierarchy has warned the Spaniard that results must improve, the BBC reported on Monday.

Arsenal manager Unai Emery has been given the club's public backing but the Premier League side's hierarchy has warned the Spaniard that results must improve, the BBC reported on Monday. Emery's position is under the spotlight after two wins in Arsenal's last 10 league games with the latest setback coming in a 2-0 defeat at high-flying Leicester City on Saturday. However, the sixth-placed London club's head of football Raul Sanllehi and managing director Vinai Venkatesham have no immediate plans to make a change of manager. "We firmly believe Unai is the right man for the job," the BBC reported them as telling more than 200 staff from across the club at a pre-planned meeting on Monday. "We are as disappointed as everyone else with both our results and performances at this stage of the season. "We share the frustration with our fans, Unai, players and all our staff as they are not at the level we want or expect. Things need to improve to meet our objectives for the season." "We are all working intensively behind the scenes to turn things around and are confident we will." Emery, 48, was appointed as Arsene Wenger's successor in May 2018 and his first season ended with a 4-1 Europa League final loss to Chelsea, having missed out on the top four by a point. The currently have 17 points from 12 games and are eight points adrift of the Champions League places.

Football: Arsenal's under-fire Emery gets club's public backing

Arsenal conceded a stoppage-time equaliser as they were held to a disappointing 1-1 draw at Portugal's Vitoria Guimaraes in Europa League Group F on Wednesday.

The Premier League club looked to be on course for victory when defender Shkodran Mustafi headed home Nicolas Pepe's 80th-minute free-kick but Bruno Duarte struck from close range to end Arsenal's 100 per cent&nbsp;record in the group.

Arsenal's fourth consecutive draw in all competitions will increase the pressure on manager Unai Emery following a difficult week in which Granit Xhaka was also stripped of the captaincy.

The English team still top the group standings on 10 points and will qualify for the last 32 of Europe's second-tier club competition if Standard Liege lose to Eintracht Frankfurt on Thursday.

Arsenal conceded a stoppage-time equaliser as they were held to a disappointing 1-1 draw at Portugal's Vitoria Guimaraes in Europa League Group F on Wednesday. The Premier League club looked to be on course for victory when defender Shkodran Mustafi headed home Nicolas Pepe's 80th-minute free-kick but Bruno Duarte struck from close range to end Arsenal's 100 per cent record in the group.

Arsenal conceded a stoppage-time equaliser as they were held to a disappointing 1-1 draw at Portugal's Vitoria Guimaraes in Europa League Group F on Wednesday. The Premier League club looked to be on course for victory when defender Shkodran Mustafi headed home Nicolas Pepe's 80th-minute free-kick but Bruno Duarte struck from close range to end Arsenal's 100 per cent record in the group. Arsenal's fourth consecutive draw in all competitions will increase the pressure on manager Unai Emery following a difficult week in which Granit Xhaka was also stripped of the captaincy. The English team still top the group standings on 10 points and will qualify for the last 32 of Europe's second-tier club competition if Standard Liege lose to Eintracht Frankfurt on Thursday.

Europa League: Arsenal held as Guimaraes grab last-gasp equaliser

Arsenal manager Unai Emery has stripped Granit Xhaka of the captaincy and left him out of the Premier League side's squad for their Europa League game against Portugal's Vitoria.

"I had a meeting with him and told him he is no longer in the captain's group," the Mirror website quoted the Spaniard as telling reporters on Tuesday.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang takes over the permanent role, although he was also not in the 18-man travelling squad for the match in Guimaraes and Hector Bellerin is likely to stand in instead.

"He (Xhaka) accepted my decision. We need to carry on and focus on tomorrow's match. I needed to take a decision and now it's closed," said Emery.

Arsenal are top of Group F after three consecutive victories.

The Swiss midfielder has been in the spotlight since he reacted angrily to home fans booing him after he was substituted during Arsenal's 2-2 draw with Crystal Palace at the Emirates Stadium on October&nbsp;27.

Xhaka has not played for the club since then.

Last Thursday he released an emotional statement to defend his actions, which included storming off the pitch and down the tunnel and said he had reached a "boiling point" following repeated threats from fans to his wife and daughter.

Arsenal manager Unai Emery has stripped Granit Xhaka of the captaincy and left him out of the Premier League side's squad for their Europa League game against Portugal's Vitoria.

Arsenal manager Unai Emery has stripped Granit Xhaka of the captaincy and left him out of the Premier League side's squad for their Europa League game against Portugal's Vitoria. "I had a meeting with him and told him he is no longer in the captain's group," the Mirror website quoted the Spaniard as telling reporters on Tuesday. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang takes over the permanent role, although he was also not in the 18-man travelling squad for the match in Guimaraes and Hector Bellerin is likely to stand in instead. "He (Xhaka) accepted my decision. We need to carry on and focus on tomorrow's match. I needed to take a decision and now it's closed," said Emery. Arsenal are top of Group F after three consecutive victories. The Swiss midfielder has been in the spotlight since he reacted angrily to home fans booing him after he was substituted during Arsenal's 2-2 draw with Crystal Palace at the Emirates Stadium on October 27. Xhaka has not played for the club since then. Last Thursday he released an emotional statement to defend his actions, which included storming off the pitch and down the tunnel and said he had reached a "boiling point" following repeated threats from fans to his wife and daughter.

Football: Xhaka stripped of Arsenal captaincy and dropped for Vitoria game

Anfield debutant Curtis Jones scored the winning spot-kick as Liverpool beat Arsenal on penalties after an astonishing 5-5 draw to reach the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-stroll-to-3-1-league-cup-win-over-southampton-258735">League Cup</a> quarter-finals on Wednesday.

The 18-year-old substitute kept his cool in front of the Kop to send Liverpool through after the hosts had trailed 3-1, 4-2 and 5-4 before a stoppage-time equaliser by Divock Origi.

On a crazy evening, it looked as though Joe Willock's screamer had earned Arsenal a memorable victory, but Liverpool proved irrepressible as their barnstorming season continued.

Liverpool scored all five of their penalties while fledgling keeper Caoimhin Kelleher, 20, saved from Dani Ceballos.

It was only the second time Liverpool had conceded five at home in the last 66 years. The other occasion was a 6-3 League Cup loss to Arsenal in 2007.

"We can talk about tactics but who cares on a night like this?" Klopp, whose side have dropped only two points in their opening 10 Premier League games, said.

"I hoped for the boys they would have a game to remember. What they did tonight, I lost it really.

"If you don't win nobody remembers it in three years, if it works out the boys will remember it forever."

Defeat was a bitter one for Arsenal manager Unai Emery whose decision to give Mesut Ozil only his third start of the season paid off with the German playmaker in dazzling form.

Willock's long-range effort appeared to have sealed a morale-boosting win for Arsenal after a difficult few days since squandering a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with Crystal Palace.

"A crazy match. I am very proud of their work, we had a high rhythm in the first 45 minutes," Emery said.

"At the end we were winning until the last action. Penalties are 50/50 and we lost. We are sad but our work, we deserve to have more. There are lots of positives to take."

Klopp and Emery changed their entire lineups from the weekend's Premier League action with winger Harvey Elliott becoming the youngest Liverpool player (16 years, 209 days) to start at Anfield.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-mohamed-salah-fires-liverpool-to-comeback-win-over-spurs-258415">Liverpool</a> took the lead in the sixth minute as Arsenal's Shkodran Mustafi scored a comical own goal, his attempted clearance from Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain's low cross going into the net off his knee.

Arsenal levelled after 19 minutes when Mesut Ozil picked out Bukayo Saka in space and after his shot was saved and Liverpool could not clear, an offside-looking Lucas Torreira tapped home.

Brazilian teenager Gabriel Martinelli scored his first goal of the night seven minutes later to put Arsenal ahead, scooping in from close range after a save by Kelleher.

Liverpool self-destructed as Elliott's poor pass went to Ozil who played in Saka to square for Martinelli to score his seventh of the season and make it 3-1, but in the 43rd minute Elliott tumbled in the box at the other end and James Milner tucked away a penalty.

Milner's dreadful back pass allowed Ainsley Maitland-Niles to make it 4-2 after Ozil had performed wonders to recycle the ball but Arsenal old boy Oxlade-Chamberlain's spectacular effort reduced the arrears soon afterwards.

Liverpool equalised in the 62nd minute when Jones played in Origi who turned superbly before unleashing a shot too powerful for Arsenal keeper Emiliano Martinez.

Willock's goal arguably topped the lot though as he advanced forward before launching an unstoppable right-foot shot into the top corner from 30 metres.

But Liverpool have forgotten how to lose and Origi's shot on the turn, after a cross from 18-year-old Neco Williams, redeemed them at the death.

Anfield debutant Curtis Jones scored the winning spot-kick as Liverpool beat Arsenal on penalties after an astonishing 5-5 draw to reach the League Cup quarter-finals on Wednesday.

Anfield debutant Curtis Jones scored the winning spot-kick as Liverpool beat Arsenal on penalties after an astonishing 5-5 draw to reach the League Cup quarter-finals on Wednesday. The 18-year-old substitute kept his cool in front of the Kop to send Liverpool through after the hosts had trailed 3-1, 4-2 and 5-4 before a stoppage-time equaliser by Divock Origi. On a crazy evening, it looked as though Joe Willock's screamer had earned Arsenal a memorable victory, but Liverpool proved irrepressible as their barnstorming season continued. Liverpool scored all five of their penalties while fledgling keeper Caoimhin Kelleher, 20, saved from Dani Ceballos. It was only the second time Liverpool had conceded five at home in the last 66 years. The other occasion was a 6-3 League Cup loss to Arsenal in 2007. "We can talk about tactics but who cares on a night like this?" Klopp, whose side have dropped only two points in their opening 10 Premier League games, said. "I hoped for the boys they would have a game to remember. What they did tonight, I lost it really. "If you don't win nobody remembers it in three years, if it works out the boys will remember it forever." Defeat was a bitter one for Arsenal manager Unai Emery whose decision to give Mesut Ozil only his third start of the season paid off with the German playmaker in dazzling form. Willock's long-range effort appeared to have sealed a morale-boosting win for Arsenal after a difficult few days since squandering a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with Crystal Palace. "A crazy match. I am very proud of their work, we had a high rhythm in the first 45 minutes," Emery said. "At the end we were winning until the last action. Penalties are 50/50 and we lost. We are sad but our work, we deserve to have more. There are lots of positives to take." Klopp and Emery changed their entire lineups from the weekend's Premier League action with winger Harvey Elliott becoming the youngest Liverpool player (16 years, 209 days) to start at Anfield. Liverpool took the lead in the sixth minute as Arsenal's Shkodran Mustafi scored a comical own goal, his attempted clearance from Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain's low cross going into the net off his knee. Arsenal levelled after 19 minutes when Mesut Ozil picked out Bukayo Saka in space and after his shot was saved and Liverpool could not clear, an offside-looking Lucas Torreira tapped home. Brazilian teenager Gabriel Martinelli scored his first goal of the night seven minutes later to put Arsenal ahead, scooping in from close range after a save by Kelleher. Liverpool self-destructed as Elliott's poor pass went to Ozil who played in Saka to square for Martinelli to score his seventh of the season and make it 3-1, but in the 43rd minute Elliott tumbled in the box at the other end and James Milner tucked away a penalty. Milner's dreadful back pass allowed Ainsley Maitland-Niles to make it 4-2 after Ozil had performed wonders to recycle the ball but Arsenal old boy Oxlade-Chamberlain's spectacular effort reduced the arrears soon afterwards. Liverpool equalised in the 62nd minute when Jones played in Origi who turned superbly before unleashing a shot too powerful for Arsenal keeper Emiliano Martinez. Willock's goal arguably topped the lot though as he advanced forward before launching an unstoppable right-foot shot into the top corner from 30 metres. But Liverpool have forgotten how to lose and Origi's shot on the turn, after a cross from 18-year-old Neco Williams, redeemed them at the death.

League Cup: Liverpool edge Arsenal on penalties after 10-goal thriller

Manager Juergen Klopp has said Liverpool will not play their League Cup quarter-final tie if it cannot be rescheduled to a suitable date that avoids clashing with the Club World Cup in December.

Liverpool beat Arsenal at Anfield in a penalty shootout on Wednesday after their last-16 tie ended 5-5 in regulation.

However, the competition's quarter-finals are set for the week commencing December&nbsp;16, the same week Klopp's side travel to Qatar for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/qatar-to-inaugurate-new-2022-stadium-during-club-world-cup-252855">FIFA Club World Cup</a>.

"We will not be the victim of this problem," Klopp told reporters. "The Carabao Cup ... if they don't find an appropriate place for us, not 3 a.m. on Christmas Day, then we don't play it.

"FIFA told us the Club World Cup will be there and we have to come there and we will do. The Premier League tells us we have to play in the Premier League, which we do obviously.

"If you have a fixture list where one team cannot be part of all the games, then you have to think about the fixture list. Hopefully it starts now."

Klopp also said that if the quarter-final tie cannot be moved then either their next opponent should advance or Arsenal could take Liverpool's place in the draw, which is to be held later on Thursday.

"We wanted to win it, we did that, and if they don't find a proper date for us then we cannot play the next round and whoever is our opponent will go through. Or Arsenal will play it," the German added.

Manager Juergen Klopp has said Liverpool will not play their League Cup quarter-final tie if it cannot be rescheduled to a suitable date that avoids clashing with the Club World Cup in December.

Manager Juergen Klopp has said Liverpool will not play their League Cup quarter-final tie if it cannot be rescheduled to a suitable date that avoids clashing with the Club World Cup in December. Liverpool beat Arsenal at Anfield in a penalty shootout on Wednesday after their last-16 tie ended 5-5 in regulation. However, the competition's quarter-finals are set for the week commencing December 16, the same week Klopp's side travel to Qatar for the FIFA Club World Cup. "We will not be the victim of this problem," Klopp told reporters. "The Carabao Cup ... if they don't find an appropriate place for us, not 3 a.m. on Christmas Day, then we don't play it. "FIFA told us the Club World Cup will be there and we have to come there and we will do. The Premier League tells us we have to play in the Premier League, which we do obviously. "If you have a fixture list where one team cannot be part of all the games, then you have to think about the fixture list. Hopefully it starts now." Klopp also said that if the quarter-final tie cannot be moved then either their next opponent should advance or Arsenal could take Liverpool's place in the draw, which is to be held later on Thursday. "We wanted to win it, we did that, and if they don't find a proper date for us then we cannot play the next round and whoever is our opponent will go through. Or Arsenal will play it," the German added.

Football: Juergen Klopp may pull Liverpool out of League Cup over fixture pile-up

Nicolas Pepe spared Arsenal's blushes with two sublime free-kicks as they claimed a last-gasp 3-2 win over Vitoria in the Europa League on Thursday having twice trailed.

Unai Emery's side were heading for a demoralising defeat, three days after losing meekly to Sheffield United in the Premier League, but substitute Pepe's late intervention kept the Gunners top of Group F with a maximum nine points.

Vitoria led 2-1 thanks to first-half goals by former Tottenham Hotspur prospect Marcus Edwards and Bruno Duarte either side of Brazilian teenager Gabriel Martinelli's leveller for the hosts -- his fifth goal in only his third start.

The home fans were becoming increasingly restless when Emery sent on Ivorian club-record signing Pepe from the bench in the 75th minute and five minutes later he curled the ball in left-footed from 20 metres after Matteo Guendouzi had been fouled.

He repeated the trick with what turned out to be virtually the last kick of the game to seal a seventh successive home win in Europe for Arsenal.

It was tough on Vitoria who played superbly until tiring late on and despite the win, it was a disjointed display by Arsenal who were booed by their own fans at halftime.

Pepe had only managed one goal in 11 appearances since joining from Lille but his sensational double against Vitoria could be the spark he needed, according to Emery.

"He can gain confidence from tonight. When he scores it's good for him and the team. He's getting better and he helped us tonight to win this match," Emery, who sent on Guendouzi and Dani Ceballos at halftime, said.

"Pepe is a very good player and we believe in him totally. We are very happy for him and us because he has two goals and two set-pieces which are perfect.

"He is improving and tonight he has two goals, which are important for us and for him. We didn't play as we wanted but we showed good spirit. It's a good victory."

Arsenal skipper Hector Bellerin admitted it had been a below-par display.

"There are lots of things we've got to improve as a team. We've got to keep the ball better, that's our trademark," he said. "When you give the ball away it doesn't mean you stop playing like that, it's in our DNA."

Until Pepe's dramatic arrival the headlines looked set to be about London-born Edwards, a player Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino once described as having a playing style similar to Argentine great Lionel Messi.

The tricky 20-year-old made only one League Cup appearance for Tottenham, however, and moved to the northern Portuguese club in the close season after a loan spell at Dutch side Excelsior.

He twisted inside two Arsenal defenders to fire his side ahead in the ninth minute -- celebrating in front of the home fans. He remained lively throughout until eventually being substituted with his side still leading.

Nicolas Pepe spared Arsenal's blushes with two sublime free-kicks as they claimed a last-gasp 3-2 win over Vitoria in the Europa League on Thursday having twice trailed.

Nicolas Pepe spared Arsenal's blushes with two sublime free-kicks as they claimed a last-gasp 3-2 win over Vitoria in the Europa League on Thursday having twice trailed. Unai Emery's side were heading for a demoralising defeat, three days after losing meekly to Sheffield United in the Premier League, but substitute Pepe's late intervention kept the Gunners top of Group F with a maximum nine points. Vitoria led 2-1 thanks to first-half goals by former Tottenham Hotspur prospect Marcus Edwards and Bruno Duarte either side of Brazilian teenager Gabriel Martinelli's leveller for the hosts -- his fifth goal in only his third start. The home fans were becoming increasingly restless when Emery sent on Ivorian club-record signing Pepe from the bench in the 75th minute and five minutes later he curled the ball in left-footed from 20 metres after Matteo Guendouzi had been fouled. He repeated the trick with what turned out to be virtually the last kick of the game to seal a seventh successive home win in Europe for Arsenal. It was tough on Vitoria who played superbly until tiring late on and despite the win, it was a disjointed display by Arsenal who were booed by their own fans at halftime. Pepe had only managed one goal in 11 appearances since joining from Lille but his sensational double against Vitoria could be the spark he needed, according to Emery. "He can gain confidence from tonight. When he scores it's good for him and the team. He's getting better and he helped us tonight to win this match," Emery, who sent on Guendouzi and Dani Ceballos at halftime, said. "Pepe is a very good player and we believe in him totally. We are very happy for him and us because he has two goals and two set-pieces which are perfect. "He is improving and tonight he has two goals, which are important for us and for him. We didn't play as we wanted but we showed good spirit. It's a good victory." Arsenal skipper Hector Bellerin admitted it had been a below-par display. "There are lots of things we've got to improve as a team. We've got to keep the ball better, that's our trademark," he said. "When you give the ball away it doesn't mean you stop playing like that, it's in our DNA." Until Pepe's dramatic arrival the headlines looked set to be about London-born Edwards, a player Spurs manager Mauricio Pochettino once described as having a playing style similar to Argentine great Lionel Messi. The tricky 20-year-old made only one League Cup appearance for Tottenham, however, and moved to the northern Portuguese club in the close season after a loan spell at Dutch side Excelsior. He twisted inside two Arsenal defenders to fire his side ahead in the ninth minute -- celebrating in front of the home fans. He remained lively throughout until eventually being substituted with his side still leading.

Football: Pepe spares Arsenal's blushes with sublime double

Sheffield United moved into the top half of the Premier League table with a 1-0 win over Arsenal at Bramall Lane on Monday that ended the Gunners’ eight-match unbeaten run.

Unai Emery’s side had not been beaten in any competition since their 3-1 loss to Liverpool on Aug 24, but they missed out on the chance to move up to third as the hosts earned a deserved victory.

Lys Mousset poked home the winner from close range on his first league start for the Blades after Nicolas Pepe wasted a gilt-edged chance for Arsenal earlier in the first half.

"For the club to host a game like this, the magnitude of it - to play well and get a win is massive,” Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder told Sky Sports.

"We came under pressure in the second half but we limited them to a few chances and we backed up a good performance with a good result.”

The result leaves Arsenal in fifth place on 15 points, two behind Leicester City and Chelsea, while Sheffield United moved into ninth on 12 points.

Arsenal came into the game with five wins in their last six games in all competitions, while the Blades had lost their last three home games in a row.

The defeat continued a poor run of away form for the Gunners, who have now picked up just two points from their last four league matches on the road.

Emery was left unhappy with the result and believed his side should have been awarded a penalty in the first half for a shirt pull by John Egan on Sokratis Papastathopoulos, which was waved away by referee Mike Dean.

"With VAR, the foul on Sokratis should have been reviewed," said the Arsenal manager.

"It was clear but we have to accept it. We did not deserve to lose and we will think about where we can improve."

Pepe squandered a glorious chance to give Arsenal the lead midway through the first half when he got on the end of a Sead Kolasinac cross but miscued his finish horribly from six yards out.

Mousset punished the visitors’ wastefulness when Jack O’Connell headed a corner into his path for the striker to bundle in from close range after half an hour.

Granit Xhaka connected well with a half-volley on the brink of half time but was denied by a flying save from Dean Henderson, and after the break Arsenal substitute, Dani Ceballos fluffed a volley from a promising position to give the goalkeeper a comfortable save.

United’s defence held firm and the home side threatened to double their lead through John Fleck, who hit a rasping shot into the side netting before striking a swerving effort from distance which had to be gathered at the second time of asking by Bernd Leno.

Sheffield United moved into the top half of the Premier League table with a 1-0 win over Arsenal at Bramall Lane on Monday that ended the Gunners’ eight-match unbeaten run.

Sheffield United moved into the top half of the Premier League table with a 1-0 win over Arsenal at Bramall Lane on Monday that ended the Gunners’ eight-match unbeaten run. Unai Emery’s side had not been beaten in any competition since their 3-1 loss to Liverpool on Aug 24, but they missed out on the chance to move up to third as the hosts earned a deserved victory. Lys Mousset poked home the winner from close range on his first league start for the Blades after Nicolas Pepe wasted a gilt-edged chance for Arsenal earlier in the first half. "For the club to host a game like this, the magnitude of it - to play well and get a win is massive,” Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder told Sky Sports. "We came under pressure in the second half but we limited them to a few chances and we backed up a good performance with a good result.” The result leaves Arsenal in fifth place on 15 points, two behind Leicester City and Chelsea, while Sheffield United moved into ninth on 12 points. Arsenal came into the game with five wins in their last six games in all competitions, while the Blades had lost their last three home games in a row. The defeat continued a poor run of away form for the Gunners, who have now picked up just two points from their last four league matches on the road. Emery was left unhappy with the result and believed his side should have been awarded a penalty in the first half for a shirt pull by John Egan on Sokratis Papastathopoulos, which was waved away by referee Mike Dean. "With VAR, the foul on Sokratis should have been reviewed," said the Arsenal manager. "It was clear but we have to accept it. We did not deserve to lose and we will think about where we can improve." Pepe squandered a glorious chance to give Arsenal the lead midway through the first half when he got on the end of a Sead Kolasinac cross but miscued his finish horribly from six yards out. Mousset punished the visitors’ wastefulness when Jack O’Connell headed a corner into his path for the striker to bundle in from close range after half an hour. Granit Xhaka connected well with a half-volley on the brink of half time but was denied by a flying save from Dean Henderson, and after the break Arsenal substitute, Dani Ceballos fluffed a volley from a promising position to give the goalkeeper a comfortable save. United’s defence held firm and the home side threatened to double their lead through John Fleck, who hit a rasping shot into the side netting before striking a swerving effort from distance which had to be gathered at the second time of asking by Bernd Leno.

Sheffield United end Arsenal's unbeaten run with impressive home win

Two men have been charged following the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/arsenal-stars-ozil-kolasinac-escape-unhurt-attempted-carjacking-by-knife-wielding-attackers-238508">attempted robbery</a> of Arsenal stars <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-arsenals-sead-kolasinac-fights-back-masked-robbers-in-north-london-238570">Mesut Ozil and Sead Kolasinac</a>, according to British media reports on Tuesday.

Germany midfielder Ozil and Bosnia defender Kolasinac were targeted by knife-wielding men riding mopeds who tried to car-jack them in north London on July 25.

Kolasinac was seen chasing attackers away from the car that he and Ozil had been driving in before they eventually found safety at a local restaurant.

The two players have only recently returned to playing for the Premier League side after missing several matches following concerns about their security at the start of the season.

Reports in the UK said that Ashley Smith, 30, of Cardinals Way in north London, has been charged with attempted robbery and threatening a person with an offensive weapon on September 5.

Jordan Northover, 26, of West Yorkshire, faces the same two charges.

Smith, who also faces a charge of possession of cannabis, was remanded in custody and will appear at Snaresbrook Crown Court in London on Thursday.

Two men have been charged following the attempted robbery of Arsenal stars Mesut Ozil and Sead Kolasinac, according to British media reports on Tuesday. Germany midfielder Ozil and Bosnia defender Kolasinac were targeted by knife-wielding men riding mopeds who tried to car-jack them in north London on July 25.

Two men have been charged following the attempted robbery of Arsenal stars Mesut Ozil and Sead Kolasinac, according to British media reports on Tuesday. Germany midfielder Ozil and Bosnia defender Kolasinac were targeted by knife-wielding men riding mopeds who tried to car-jack them in north London on July 25. Kolasinac was seen chasing attackers away from the car that he and Ozil had been driving in before they eventually found safety at a local restaurant. The two players have only recently returned to playing for the Premier League side after missing several matches following concerns about their security at the start of the season. Reports in the UK said that Ashley Smith, 30, of Cardinals Way in north London, has been charged with attempted robbery and threatening a person with an offensive weapon on September 5. Jordan Northover, 26, of West Yorkshire, faces the same two charges. Smith, who also faces a charge of possession of cannabis, was remanded in custody and will appear at Snaresbrook Crown Court in London on Thursday.

Two charged over Ozil, Kolasinac attempted robbery: Reports

Arsenal teenager Bukayo Saka scored his first goal for the club as they beat 10-man Eintracht Frankfurt 3-0, while Manchester United's 17-year-old Mason Greenwood secured a 1-0 win over FC Astana as the Europa League group stage began on Thursday.

Joe Willock put Arsenal ahead in the first half with a deflected shot that flew in off the underside of the crossbar, but Frankfurt battled gamely until midfielder Dominik Kohr was sent off for picking up two yellow cards in the second half.

Londoner Saka, 18, added a second with a superb curling shot in the 85th minute and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang slotted home a third to secure all three points for the Premier League side in the Group F clash in Germany.

It was Frankfurt's first loss in Europe in 16 games stretching back to 2006, and the win put Arsenal top of the group ahead of Standard Liege, who beat Vitoria Guimaraes of Portugal 2-0 at home.

Despite plenty of chances, Manchester United struggled to break down Kazakh side Astana until Greenwood got his first goal for the Old Trafford club in the 72rd minute of the Group L tie.

Partizan Belgrade, hit with a two-match stadium ban by UEFA because of racist actions by supporters, were allowed to fill the stands with over 20,000 children as they took on Dutch side AZ Alkmaar in the other Group L game.

The youngsters saw Israeli midfielder Bebras Natcho score twice, including a penalty, in an entertaining 2-2 draw.

Wolfsberg FC of Austria pulled off a shock by hammering Borussia Monchengladbach 4-0 away in front of a tiny band of travelling fans on their debut in the group stage.

Roma also had a bright start in Group J with a 4-0 win over Basaksehir, while in Group D PSV Eindhoven edged Sporting 2-1 and Norwegians Rosenborg lost 1-0 at Austrians LASK.

Seven-goal thriller

Apoel Nicosia came back from two down to lead 3-2 against Dudelange of Luxembourg, but goals by Dominik Stolz and Danel Sinani gave the visitors a 4-3 win in Group A. Qarabag slumped to a 3-0 home defeat by Sevilla in the group's other game.

Bulgarian side Ludogorets enjoyed a surprisingly easy win with the 5-1 thrashing of visitors CSKA Moscow in Group H.

It was an emotional night in Glasgow as Rangers faced Feyenoord after the death on Wednesday of their former player Dutchman Fernando Ricksen at the age of 43.

Ricksen, who died from motor neuron disease, signed for Rangers from AZ Alkmaar in 2000 and went on to become a revered figure at the club, winning two league titles and two Scottish Cup trophies during a six-year spell at the club.

Fans unfurled banners celebrating Ricksen before Sheyi Ojo scored the only goal of the game in the first half to give Rangers a 1-0 win in their Group G clash.

English Premier League side Wolverhampton Wanderers, making their first appearance in Europe since a 1980-81 UEFA Cup campaign, lost 1-0 at home to Braga in Group K, while Slovan Bratislava beat Besiktas 4-2 in the group's other game.

Dynamo Kiev and FC Copenhagen got 1-0 home wins over Malmo and Lugano respectively in Group B, while in Group E Cluj of Romania beat Lazio 2-1 and Rennes drew 1-1 with Celtic.

Winger Kevin Bua scored twice for Swiss side FC Basel as they got off to the perfect start in Group C by hammering visiting Krasnodar 5-0, while Getafe beat Trabzonspor 1-0.

Arsenal teenager Bukayo Saka scored his first goal for the club as they beat 10-man Eintracht Frankfurt 3-0, while Manchester United's 17-year-old Mason Greenwood secured a 1-0 win over FC Astana as the Europa League group stage began on Thursday.

Arsenal teenager Bukayo Saka scored his first goal for the club as they beat 10-man Eintracht Frankfurt 3-0, while Manchester United's 17-year-old Mason Greenwood secured a 1-0 win over FC Astana as the Europa League group stage began on Thursday. Joe Willock put Arsenal ahead in the first half with a deflected shot that flew in off the underside of the crossbar, but Frankfurt battled gamely until midfielder Dominik Kohr was sent off for picking up two yellow cards in the second half. Londoner Saka, 18, added a second with a superb curling shot in the 85th minute and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang slotted home a third to secure all three points for the Premier League side in the Group F clash in Germany. It was Frankfurt's first loss in Europe in 16 games stretching back to 2006, and the win put Arsenal top of the group ahead of Standard Liege, who beat Vitoria Guimaraes of Portugal 2-0 at home. Despite plenty of chances, Manchester United struggled to break down Kazakh side Astana until Greenwood got his first goal for the Old Trafford club in the 72rd minute of the Group L tie. Partizan Belgrade, hit with a two-match stadium ban by UEFA because of racist actions by supporters, were allowed to fill the stands with over 20,000 children as they took on Dutch side AZ Alkmaar in the other Group L game. The youngsters saw Israeli midfielder Bebras Natcho score twice, including a penalty, in an entertaining 2-2 draw. Wolfsberg FC of Austria pulled off a shock by hammering Borussia Monchengladbach 4-0 away in front of a tiny band of travelling fans on their debut in the group stage. Roma also had a bright start in Group J with a 4-0 win over Basaksehir, while in Group D PSV Eindhoven edged Sporting 2-1 and Norwegians Rosenborg lost 1-0 at Austrians LASK. Seven-goal thriller Apoel Nicosia came back from two down to lead 3-2 against Dudelange of Luxembourg, but goals by Dominik Stolz and Danel Sinani gave the visitors a 4-3 win in Group A. Qarabag slumped to a 3-0 home defeat by Sevilla in the group's other game. Bulgarian side Ludogorets enjoyed a surprisingly easy win with the 5-1 thrashing of visitors CSKA Moscow in Group H. It was an emotional night in Glasgow as Rangers faced Feyenoord after the death on Wednesday of their former player Dutchman Fernando Ricksen at the age of 43. Ricksen, who died from motor neuron disease, signed for Rangers from AZ Alkmaar in 2000 and went on to become a revered figure at the club, winning two league titles and two Scottish Cup trophies during a six-year spell at the club. Fans unfurled banners celebrating Ricksen before Sheyi Ojo scored the only goal of the game in the first half to give Rangers a 1-0 win in their Group G clash. English Premier League side Wolverhampton Wanderers, making their first appearance in Europe since a 1980-81 UEFA Cup campaign, lost 1-0 at home to Braga in Group K, while Slovan Bratislava beat Besiktas 4-2 in the group's other game. Dynamo Kiev and FC Copenhagen got 1-0 home wins over Malmo and Lugano respectively in Group B, while in Group E Cluj of Romania beat Lazio 2-1 and Rennes drew 1-1 with Celtic. Winger Kevin Bua scored twice for Swiss side FC Basel as they got off to the perfect start in Group C by hammering visiting Krasnodar 5-0, while Getafe beat Trabzonspor 1-0.

Wins for Arsenal, Manchester United as Europa League kicks off

Arsenal squandered a two-goal lead as Watford hit back to draw 2-2 in new manager Quique Sanchez Flores's first game of his second stint in charge at Vicarage Road on Sunday.

Flores's return following the dismissal of Javi Gracia after four games of the Premier League season seemed to be going flat as Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang struck twice for Arsenal in the first half.

But Tom Cleverley halved the deficit in the 53rd minute after an Arsenal mix-up and Watford were rewarded for a much-improved display when substitute Roberto Pereyra converted an 81st-minute penalty awarded for a foul on him by David Luiz.

Watford came agonisingly close to winning it with Gerard Deulofeu curling just wide and then Abdoulaye Doucoure having a stoppage-time shot saved by Bernd Leno after a counter-attack.

Victory would have put Arsenal into third place but they ended the day seventh in a cluster of clubs on eight points.

Arsenal manager Unai Emery said his side had struggled to cope with Watford's physical style.

"They are more stronger than us so we want to break the lines from the goal kick and connect to Mesut Ozil, like we did with the first goal," he said.

"We have young players, we are working to improve and they will gain experience from matches like today. We can grow up and learn with these mistakes."

Watford are still seeking a first win of the season and remain bottom but they doubled their points tally to two.

Watford started with real purpose but were stunned when Aubameyang punished them twice in the space of 11 minutes.

In the 21st minute he collected Sead Kolasinac's pass before turning sharply and firing beyond Ben Foster.

He struck again after a flowing 20-pass move and the Gunners looked on course for three points.

They gifted Watford a lifeline after the break though when defender Sokratis Papastathopoulos gave away the ball to Gerard Deulofeu in his own area and he fed Cleverly to score.

Arsenal suddenly looked fragile and Luiz rashly brought down Pereyra to concede his second penalty in three games.

"I was really happy with the performance of the players," Sanchez Flores said. "We have one point against a very tough team.

"It's good for our confidence. We are positive."

Arsenal squandered a two-goal lead as Watford hit back to draw 2-2 in new manager Quique Sanchez Flores's first game of his second stint in charge at Vicarage Road on Sunday.

Arsenal squandered a two-goal lead as Watford hit back to draw 2-2 in new manager Quique Sanchez Flores's first game of his second stint in charge at Vicarage Road on Sunday. Flores's return following the dismissal of Javi Gracia after four games of the Premier League season seemed to be going flat as Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang struck twice for Arsenal in the first half. But Tom Cleverley halved the deficit in the 53rd minute after an Arsenal mix-up and Watford were rewarded for a much-improved display when substitute Roberto Pereyra converted an 81st-minute penalty awarded for a foul on him by David Luiz. Watford came agonisingly close to winning it with Gerard Deulofeu curling just wide and then Abdoulaye Doucoure having a stoppage-time shot saved by Bernd Leno after a counter-attack. Victory would have put Arsenal into third place but they ended the day seventh in a cluster of clubs on eight points. Arsenal manager Unai Emery said his side had struggled to cope with Watford's physical style. "They are more stronger than us so we want to break the lines from the goal kick and connect to Mesut Ozil, like we did with the first goal," he said. "We have young players, we are working to improve and they will gain experience from matches like today. We can grow up and learn with these mistakes." Watford are still seeking a first win of the season and remain bottom but they doubled their points tally to two. Watford started with real purpose but were stunned when Aubameyang punished them twice in the space of 11 minutes. In the 21st minute he collected Sead Kolasinac's pass before turning sharply and firing beyond Ben Foster. He struck again after a flowing 20-pass move and the Gunners looked on course for three points. They gifted Watford a lifeline after the break though when defender Sokratis Papastathopoulos gave away the ball to Gerard Deulofeu in his own area and he fed Cleverly to score. Arsenal suddenly looked fragile and Luiz rashly brought down Pereyra to concede his second penalty in three games. "I was really happy with the performance of the players," Sanchez Flores said. "We have one point against a very tough team. "It's good for our confidence. We are positive."

Watford battle back to salvage draw against Arsenal

Last season's runners-up Arsenal were placed in the same section as Eintracht Frankfurt in the draw for the Europa League group stage in Monaco on Friday, while Manchester United face a long trip to Kazakhstan.

Unai Emery's Arsenal side lost to Chelsea in the final in Baku after Eintracht had been eliminated by the same side on penalties in the last four.

Ten-time Belgian champions Standard Liege and Portugal's Vitoria Guimaraes are also in Group F.

United, Europa League winners in 2017, will face Astana of Kazakhstan as well as Partizan Belgrade and former finalists AZ Alkmaar of the Netherlands in Group L.

Wolverhampton Wanderers, the third English team in the draw, will take on Turkish side Besiktas in Group K.

In their first European campaign since 1980, Wolves have already come through three ties just to reach the group stage, including defeating Torino 5-3 on aggregate in the play-offs.

Nuno Espirito Santo's team will also take on Braga of Portugal and Slovan Bratislava of Slovakia.

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The 2019/20 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UEL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UEL</a> group stage draw! 👊 
 
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While all three Premier League sides will be fancied to progress to the last 32, the draw was far less kind on the two Scottish representatives.

Scottish champions Celtic meet Italian Cup holders Lazio and French Cup holders Rennes in Group E as well as CFR Cluj, the Romanian side to whom they lost in Champions League qualifying.

Celtic were in the same group as Rennes in the 2011-12 Europa League and took four points against the French club.

Meanwhile, Steven Gerrard's Rangers will take on former European Cup winners Porto and Feyenoord as well as Swiss champions Young Boys in Group G.

Rangers reached the group stage for the second season running after edging out Legia Warsaw in the play-off round.

The opening group games will be played on September 19. This season's final will be held in the Polish city of Gdansk on May 27, 2020.

Last season's runners-up Arsenal were placed in the same section as Eintracht Frankfurt in the draw for the Europa League group stage in Monaco on Friday, while Manchester United face a long trip to Kazakhstan.

Last season's runners-up Arsenal were placed in the same section as Eintracht Frankfurt in the draw for the Europa League group stage in Monaco on Friday, while Manchester United face a long trip to Kazakhstan. Unai Emery's Arsenal side lost to Chelsea in the final in Baku after Eintracht had been eliminated by the same side on penalties in the last four. Ten-time Belgian champions Standard Liege and Portugal's Vitoria Guimaraes are also in Group F. United, Europa League winners in 2017, will face Astana of Kazakhstan as well as Partizan Belgrade and former finalists AZ Alkmaar of the Netherlands in Group L. Wolverhampton Wanderers, the third English team in the draw, will take on Turkish side Besiktas in Group K. In their first European campaign since 1980, Wolves have already come through three ties just to reach the group stage, including defeating Torino 5-3 on aggregate in the play-offs. Nuno Espirito Santo's team will also take on Braga of Portugal and Slovan Bratislava of Slovakia. The 2019/20 #UEL group stage draw! 👊 Which games are you excited for?#UELdraw pic.twitter.com/aZkjcfj4lD — UEFA Europa League (@EuropaLeague) August 30, 2019 × While all three Premier League sides will be fancied to progress to the last 32, the draw was far less kind on the two Scottish representatives. Scottish champions Celtic meet Italian Cup holders Lazio and French Cup holders Rennes in Group E as well as CFR Cluj, the Romanian side to whom they lost in Champions League qualifying. Celtic were in the same group as Rennes in the 2011-12 Europa League and took four points against the French club. Meanwhile, Steven Gerrard's Rangers will take on former European Cup winners Porto and Feyenoord as well as Swiss champions Young Boys in Group G. Rangers reached the group stage for the second season running after edging out Legia Warsaw in the play-off round. The opening group games will be played on September 19. This season's final will be held in the Polish city of Gdansk on May 27, 2020.

Arsenal drawn with Eintracht in Europa League, Man Utd head to Kazakhstan

Liverpool made it three wins out of three as Mohamed Salah scored twice in a convincing 3-1 victory over Arsenal on Saturday to take control at the top of the Premier League.

Arsenal had won their opening two games and the Gunners' record signing, winger Nicolas Pepe, could have opened the scoring three times as he threatened on the counter-attack.

Yet four minutes before the break, the European champions, who dominated the early possession, broke the deadlock with Joel Matip rising to power home a header from a Trent Alexander-Arnold corner.

The game looked poised at the interval but Liverpool doubled their lead just four minutes after the restart as Arsenal's former Chelsea defender David Luiz blatantly pulled Salah's shirt in the box and the Egyptian hammered home the resulting spot-kick.

It was an inexplicable decision from Luiz and his bad day continued when he was left for dead by Salah, who burst goalwards and then superbly buried the ball in the far bottom corner to make it 3-0.

Substitute Lucas Torreira pulled a goal back for Arsenal in the 85th minute, but by then the damage had been done.

Liverpool made it three wins out of three as Mohamed Salah scored twice in a convincing 3-1 victory over Arsenal on Saturday to take control at the top of the Premier League.

Liverpool made it three wins out of three as Mohamed Salah scored twice in a convincing 3-1 victory over Arsenal on Saturday to take control at the top of the Premier League. Arsenal had won their opening two games and the Gunners' record signing, winger Nicolas Pepe, could have opened the scoring three times as he threatened on the counter-attack. Yet four minutes before the break, the European champions, who dominated the early possession, broke the deadlock with Joel Matip rising to power home a header from a Trent Alexander-Arnold corner. The game looked poised at the interval but Liverpool doubled their lead just four minutes after the restart as Arsenal's former Chelsea defender David Luiz blatantly pulled Salah's shirt in the box and the Egyptian hammered home the resulting spot-kick. It was an inexplicable decision from Luiz and his bad day continued when he was left for dead by Salah, who burst goalwards and then superbly buried the ball in the far bottom corner to make it 3-0. Substitute Lucas Torreira pulled a goal back for Arsenal in the 85th minute, but by then the damage had been done.

Three out of three for Liverpool as Arsenal dispatched

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang says Arsenal could try to fight fire with fire on Saturday by deploying him in a front three alongside Alexandre Lacazette and Nicolas Pepe when they travel to face Liverpool in the Premier League.

Liverpool's attacking trio of Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino combined for 69 goals and 19 assists in all competitions last season and Aubameyang labelled them "one of the best trios in the world".

"As we've seen from last season, Liverpool play with three up front and they play very well. Why not us? I think we can do it," Aubameyang told Sky Sports.

"I see a lot of similarities. Pepe and me, we are quick players like Mane and Salah, while 'Laca' is a player who can keep the ball and is really good with his feet like Firmino. So yes, we can say we are close enough."

Pepe, who cost Arsenal a club record £72 million ($88.03 million), scored 22 league goals and provided 11 assists for Lille last season and Aubameyang is looking forward to seeing what he can bring to the attack when the three link up on the pitch.

"First of all, he speaks French so it will be easy for him to settle in and play with us," Aubameyang added. "He only started training with us a few weeks ago but it's good to have him with us. He's started well.

"Last season he was amazing. He'll bring us speed and excellent finishing."

Accommodating all three in the starting lineup would require a change in formation but Aubameyang has no qualms about moving from the centre forward role to play out wide.

"I've played a lot of times on the right and the left during my career, so I'm used to it. It's a bit of a different job," the Gabon international said.

"When you are a striker you have to keep hold of the ball and you have to score goals. When you are out wide you have to run and defend a bit more than if you are playing as a striker through the middle. But it's not a problem."

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang says Arsenal could try to fight fire with fire on Saturday by deploying him in a front three alongside Alexandre Lacazette and Nicolas Pepe when they travel to face Liverpool in the Premier League.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang says Arsenal could try to fight fire with fire on Saturday by deploying him in a front three alongside Alexandre Lacazette and Nicolas Pepe when they travel to face Liverpool in the Premier League. Liverpool's attacking trio of Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino combined for 69 goals and 19 assists in all competitions last season and Aubameyang labelled them "one of the best trios in the world". "As we've seen from last season, Liverpool play with three up front and they play very well. Why not us? I think we can do it," Aubameyang told Sky Sports. "I see a lot of similarities. Pepe and me, we are quick players like Mane and Salah, while 'Laca' is a player who can keep the ball and is really good with his feet like Firmino. So yes, we can say we are close enough." Pepe, who cost Arsenal a club record £72 million ($88.03 million), scored 22 league goals and provided 11 assists for Lille last season and Aubameyang is looking forward to seeing what he can bring to the attack when the three link up on the pitch. "First of all, he speaks French so it will be easy for him to settle in and play with us," Aubameyang added. "He only started training with us a few weeks ago but it's good to have him with us. He's started well. "Last season he was amazing. He'll bring us speed and excellent finishing." Accommodating all three in the starting lineup would require a change in formation but Aubameyang has no qualms about moving from the centre forward role to play out wide. "I've played a lot of times on the right and the left during my career, so I'm used to it. It's a bit of a different job," the Gabon international said. "When you are a striker you have to keep hold of the ball and you have to score goals. When you are out wide you have to run and defend a bit more than if you are playing as a striker through the middle. But it's not a problem."

Arsenal trio can match Liverpool's front three: Aubameyang

Early Premier League leaders Liverpool and Arsenal face-off, while Frank Lampard is under pressure to deliver his first win as Chelsea boss at Norwich on Saturday.

One of the only two remaining 100 per cent records in the Premier League will go at Anfield where the European champions will hope to continue a fine recent record against the north Londoners.

Jurgen Klopp has never lost in seven previous Premier League meetings against Arsenal and his side have beaten the Gunners 4-0 and 5-1 at home in the past two seasons.

However, Unai Emery's outfit are hoping a busy summer in the transfer window, while Liverpool did not strengthen, will have significantly narrowed the 27-point gap between the sides last season.

Emery could hand a first start to £72 million ($87 million) club record signing Nicolas Pepe, while on-loan Real Madrid midfielder Dani Ceballos earned rave reviews by creating both goals on his full debut against Burnley last weekend.

However, it is at the back Arsenal need a drastic improvement and there is an early opportunity for veteran centre-back David Luiz to make his mark by halting the free-scoring trio of Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino and Mohamed Salah, who combined for all five Liverpool goals when the sides last met.

"A lot of times in my life I had sensational players always (but) not world-class players," Klopp told Liverpool's website.

"Now, thank God I have them and they make the difference. Sadio Mane, Bobby Firmino, Mo Salah – these guys in the last situation are really outstanding."

Arsenal have some outstanding finishers of their own. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who shared the Premier League Golden Boot with Mane and Salah last season, has scored his side's winner in the first two games of the campaign.

And on the evidence of Liverpool's first four games of the season across all competitions, a defence that registered 20 Premier League clean sheets last season looks far less solid.

Alisson Becker remains sidelined with a calf injury, meaning Adrian -- whose calamitous attempted clearance gifted Southampton a goal last weekend -- will keep his place in goal.

Solskjaer's vision coming together

Whilst Liverpool and Arsenal have taken advantage of a couple of kind fixtures to get their campaigns off to a bright start, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham all dropped points on matchday two.

The roles are reversed this weekend as United host Crystal Palace, who have yet to score this season at Old Trafford, City travel to Bournemouth and Spurs seek to dismiss Newcastle with the ease newly-promoted Norwich did last weekend.

United paid the penalty for Paul Pogba's miss from the spot in a 1-1 draw at Wolves on Monday, but following on from a 4-0 win over Chelsea on the opening weekend of the season, there have been plenty of encouraging signs that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's vision for a young, quick and hungry side is taking shape.

Harry Maguire and Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who will face his old side this weekend, have made an immediate impact in shoring up a leaky defence, while Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial have formed a dynamic partnership up front.

Pukki to pile pressure on Lampard?

Lampard was not handed an easy start to life as Chelsea boss with a trip to Old Trafford followed by Liverpool in the UEFA Super Cup and the visit of an ambitious Leicester side to Stamford Bridge last weekend.

However, Lampard, who had just one year's managerial experience at Derby prior to taking over his old club, needs a win at Norwich to ease the questioning of his tactics.

The former England international has been accused of being too gung-ho in his approach as both United and Leicester cut Chelsea open relentlessly on the counter-attack.

If Lampard cannot tailor his approach, Norwich have a striker in form ready to take advantage. Teemu Pukki has scored four times in his first two Premier League appearances, including a hat-trick against Newcastle last weekend.

Fixtures (1400GMT unless stated)

Friday

Aston Villa v Everton (1900)

Saturday

Norwich v Chelsea (1130), Brighton v Southampton, Manchester United v Crystal Palace, Sheffield United v Leicester, Watford v West Ham, Liverpool v Arsenal (1630)

Sunday

Bournemouth v Manchester City (1300), Tottenham v Newcastle, Wolves v Burnley (both 1530)

Early Premier League leaders Liverpool and Arsenal face-off, while Frank Lampard is under pressure to deliver his first win as Chelsea boss at Norwich on Saturday.

Early Premier League leaders Liverpool and Arsenal face-off, while Frank Lampard is under pressure to deliver his first win as Chelsea boss at Norwich on Saturday. One of the only two remaining 100 per cent records in the Premier League will go at Anfield where the European champions will hope to continue a fine recent record against the north Londoners. Jurgen Klopp has never lost in seven previous Premier League meetings against Arsenal and his side have beaten the Gunners 4-0 and 5-1 at home in the past two seasons. However, Unai Emery's outfit are hoping a busy summer in the transfer window, while Liverpool did not strengthen, will have significantly narrowed the 27-point gap between the sides last season. Emery could hand a first start to £72 million ($87 million) club record signing Nicolas Pepe, while on-loan Real Madrid midfielder Dani Ceballos earned rave reviews by creating both goals on his full debut against Burnley last weekend. However, it is at the back Arsenal need a drastic improvement and there is an early opportunity for veteran centre-back David Luiz to make his mark by halting the free-scoring trio of Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino and Mohamed Salah, who combined for all five Liverpool goals when the sides last met. "A lot of times in my life I had sensational players always (but) not world-class players," Klopp told Liverpool's website. "Now, thank God I have them and they make the difference. Sadio Mane, Bobby Firmino, Mo Salah – these guys in the last situation are really outstanding." Arsenal have some outstanding finishers of their own. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who shared the Premier League Golden Boot with Mane and Salah last season, has scored his side's winner in the first two games of the campaign. And on the evidence of Liverpool's first four games of the season across all competitions, a defence that registered 20 Premier League clean sheets last season looks far less solid. Alisson Becker remains sidelined with a calf injury, meaning Adrian -- whose calamitous attempted clearance gifted Southampton a goal last weekend -- will keep his place in goal. Solskjaer's vision coming together Whilst Liverpool and Arsenal have taken advantage of a couple of kind fixtures to get their campaigns off to a bright start, Manchester City, Manchester United and Tottenham all dropped points on matchday two. The roles are reversed this weekend as United host Crystal Palace, who have yet to score this season at Old Trafford, City travel to Bournemouth and Spurs seek to dismiss Newcastle with the ease newly-promoted Norwich did last weekend. United paid the penalty for Paul Pogba's miss from the spot in a 1-1 draw at Wolves on Monday, but following on from a 4-0 win over Chelsea on the opening weekend of the season, there have been plenty of encouraging signs that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's vision for a young, quick and hungry side is taking shape. Harry Maguire and Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who will face his old side this weekend, have made an immediate impact in shoring up a leaky defence, while Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial have formed a dynamic partnership up front. Pukki to pile pressure on Lampard? Lampard was not handed an easy start to life as Chelsea boss with a trip to Old Trafford followed by Liverpool in the UEFA Super Cup and the visit of an ambitious Leicester side to Stamford Bridge last weekend. However, Lampard, who had just one year's managerial experience at Derby prior to taking over his old club, needs a win at Norwich to ease the questioning of his tactics. The former England international has been accused of being too gung-ho in his approach as both United and Leicester cut Chelsea open relentlessly on the counter-attack. If Lampard cannot tailor his approach, Norwich have a striker in form ready to take advantage. Teemu Pukki has scored four times in his first two Premier League appearances, including a hat-trick against Newcastle last weekend. Fixtures (1400GMT unless stated) Friday Aston Villa v Everton (1900) Saturday Norwich v Chelsea (1130), Brighton v Southampton, Manchester United v Crystal Palace, Sheffield United v Leicester, Watford v West Ham, Liverpool v Arsenal (1630) Sunday Bournemouth v Manchester City (1300), Tottenham v Newcastle, Wolves v Burnley (both 1530)

Arsenal out to close gap on Liverpool, Frank Lampard seeks first win

Defender David Luiz said he decided to move from Chelsea to Premier League rivals Arsenal for a different challenge after an "honest conversation" with manager Frank Lampard about the Stamford Bridge club's new direction.

Luiz, 32, made a deadline day move across London to Arsenal where he signed a two-year contract after spending three seasons in a second stint with Chelsea. He made his Arsenal debut last weekend in a 2-1 home win over Burnley.

With Chelsea operating under a FIFA transfer ban, Lampard's policy has been to build the side with younger players, choosing to start Andreas Christensen and Kurt Zouma in central defence in his first two league games.

"Everyone knows I was so happy in Chelsea and won many trophies there. I had a real honest conversation with Lamps and Lamps had different ideas for his plans for the year," Luiz told reporters.

"So the best way for me to respect the club where I can was to move on, try a new challenge and give him the opportunity to do his job.

"I'm so happy here as since the first day I felt welcome. This is a big club and I want to be here and see it shine on the pitch and outside."

Luiz said he could have remained at Stamford Bridge, where he had signed a new two-year contract extension at the end of last season after helping the club finish third in the league, but chose to seek a new challenge.

"I am a guy with ambition and that is why I moved," Luiz added. "I could have chosen a comfortable zone and got money and be cool and that is it.

"But I like a new a challenge and new things in my life."

Defender David Luiz said he decided to move from Chelsea to Premier League rivals Arsenal for a different challenge after an "honest conversation" with manager Frank Lampard about the Stamford Bridge club's new direction.

Defender David Luiz said he decided to move from Chelsea to Premier League rivals Arsenal for a different challenge after an "honest conversation" with manager Frank Lampard about the Stamford Bridge club's new direction. Luiz, 32, made a deadline day move across London to Arsenal where he signed a two-year contract after spending three seasons in a second stint with Chelsea. He made his Arsenal debut last weekend in a 2-1 home win over Burnley. With Chelsea operating under a FIFA transfer ban, Lampard's policy has been to build the side with younger players, choosing to start Andreas Christensen and Kurt Zouma in central defence in his first two league games. "Everyone knows I was so happy in Chelsea and won many trophies there. I had a real honest conversation with Lamps and Lamps had different ideas for his plans for the year," Luiz told reporters. "So the best way for me to respect the club where I can was to move on, try a new challenge and give him the opportunity to do his job. "I'm so happy here as since the first day I felt welcome. This is a big club and I want to be here and see it shine on the pitch and outside." Luiz said he could have remained at Stamford Bridge, where he had signed a new two-year contract extension at the end of last season after helping the club finish third in the league, but chose to seek a new challenge. "I am a guy with ambition and that is why I moved," Luiz added. "I could have chosen a comfortable zone and got money and be cool and that is it. "But I like a new a challenge and new things in my life."

Moved to Arsenal to experience new challenge, says David Luiz

Former England, Arsenal and Chelsea defender Ashley Cole, one of the most decorated players in English domestic football, announced his retirement from the game on Sunday, bringing an end to a colourful 20-year career.

The 38-year-old, who also had spells at AS Roma in Italy's Serie A and LA Galaxy in Major League Soccer, last represented Championship (second-tier) outfit Derby County before his contract expired at the end of last season.

The left back won three Premier League titles, seven FA Cups and a League Cup during his career. He also won the Champions League and UEFA Cup once each while at Chelsea.

Cole often found himself in the news over the years over his private life, including his marriage to singer and television personality Cheryl Cole.

"After hard consideration, it's time to hang my boots up and look towards my next chapter, which will hopefully be coaching," Cole, who was also capped 107 times by England, told Sky Sports.

"As a young kid, I never expected to play one game or be a professional. Looking back, to be able to say I played in World Cups, Champions League finals, being lucky enough to lift Premier League titles - it's a young kid's dream.

"I fulfilled my dream. Now I look to the future, hopefully as a great coach."

Cole won two league titles with boyhood club Arsenal after making his debut in 1999 and was part of their "Invincibles" team that went unbeaten throughout the 2003-04 campaign.

He joined London rivals Chelsea in 2006 and continued to stamp his authority as one of the best defenders in England, going on to lift more titles at Stamford Bridge.

His four FA Cups with Chelsea took his personal tally to seven, making him the most successful player in the competition's history.

After leaving Chelsea in 2014, he played in Italy and the United States before working under former team mate and current Chelsea boss at Derby, helping them to the playoff final which they lost to Aston Villa.

Former England, Arsenal and Chelsea defender Ashley Cole, one of the most decorated players in English domestic football, announced his retirement from the game on Sunday, bringing an end to a colourful 20-year career.

Former England, Arsenal and Chelsea defender Ashley Cole, one of the most decorated players in English domestic football, announced his retirement from the game on Sunday, bringing an end to a colourful 20-year career. The 38-year-old, who also had spells at AS Roma in Italy's Serie A and LA Galaxy in Major League Soccer, last represented Championship (second-tier) outfit Derby County before his contract expired at the end of last season. The left back won three Premier League titles, seven FA Cups and a League Cup during his career. He also won the Champions League and UEFA Cup once each while at Chelsea. Cole often found himself in the news over the years over his private life, including his marriage to singer and television personality Cheryl Cole. "After hard consideration, it's time to hang my boots up and look towards my next chapter, which will hopefully be coaching," Cole, who was also capped 107 times by England, told Sky Sports. "As a young kid, I never expected to play one game or be a professional. Looking back, to be able to say I played in World Cups, Champions League finals, being lucky enough to lift Premier League titles - it's a young kid's dream. "I fulfilled my dream. Now I look to the future, hopefully as a great coach." Cole won two league titles with boyhood club Arsenal after making his debut in 1999 and was part of their "Invincibles" team that went unbeaten throughout the 2003-04 campaign. He joined London rivals Chelsea in 2006 and continued to stamp his authority as one of the best defenders in England, going on to lift more titles at Stamford Bridge. His four FA Cups with Chelsea took his personal tally to seven, making him the most successful player in the competition's history. After leaving Chelsea in 2014, he played in Italy and the United States before working under former team mate and current Chelsea boss at Derby, helping them to the playoff final which they lost to Aston Villa.

Former England defender Ashley Cole calls time on 20-year career

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was Arsenal's match-winner again as the Gabon forward sealed a 2-1 victory against Burnley to extend his side's perfect start to the Premier League season on Saturday.

Aubameyang had netted the only goal in last weekend's win at Newcastle and he emulated that crucial contribution with another decisive strike at the Emirates Stadium.

Alexandre Lacazette's first goal of the season had given Arsenal the lead before Ashley Barnes equalised for Burnley just before half-time.

It was a encouraging afternoon for Arsenal manager Unai Emery as his widely written-off team continued to bounce back from their dismal end to last season.

Failing to finish in the top four and losing the Europa League final against Chelsea robbed Arsenal of a Champions League place and led to a summer of recriminations as fans vented their frustrations.

But Emery has quietly assembled a more vibrant squad than he had in his troubled first campaign.

With two successive wins to start the season for the first time in 10 years, the early signs are promising for Arsenal ahead of sterner tests against Liverpool and Tottenham in their next two games.

As well as goals for Arsenal's two main strikers, there was a virtuoso performance from on-loan Real Madrid midfielder Dani Ceballos, who had two assists in his first start.

Club record signing Nicolas Pepe impressed after coming off the bench as half-time and although former Chelsea defender David Luiz was hardly rock solid on his debut, Emery's back four did enough to keep Burnley at bay.

Mesut Ozil was again absent from the Gunners squad after the German midfielder was ill earlier this week.

Ozil missed the Newcastle match because of "further security fears" after being involved in a carjacking incident with team-mate Sead Kolasinac in July.

But Ozil's absence wasn't a hinderance against a Burnley team who suffered their eighth successive loss at the Emirates.

Lacazette, back from an ankle injury that meant he was only a substitute at Newcastle, came close to putting Arsenal in front when he met a Sokratis flick with a close-range header that Nick Pope tipped over.

Deft touch

It was only a temporary reprieve for Burnley as Emery's side took the lead from the resulting corner in the 13th minute.

Ceballos's corner reached Lacazette at the near post and he showed impressive strength to hold off Erik Pieters as he turned away from a gaggle of Burnley defenders, his determined effort sending him slipping to the turf but not before he guided his shot through Pope's legs.

Ceballos showed a deft touch and quick feet to escape the attentions of his marker, drawing a huge cheer from the Arsenal fans who are already comparing him to Gunners great Cesc Fabregas.

Reiss Nelson squandered a chance to double Arsenal's lead when he fired too close to Pope, who also denied Matteo Guendouzi after another attack sliced through the Burnley defence.

But Burnley drew level in the 43rd minute when Dwight McNeil's shot deflected to Barnes and he took advantage of Arsenal's sloppy marking to poke home from close range for his third goal of the season.

Nelson had a goal ruled out for offside against Nacho Monreal moments later in what proved to be the young winger's last contribution before he was replaced by Pepe at half-time.

Pope was in fine form and he pushed away Ceballos's shot from the edge of the area, but even the Burnley keeper couldn't stem the tide forever.

In the 64th minute, Ceballos tenaciously won possession and found Aubameyang, who accelerated towards the Burnley area.

With Burnley's defenders backing off, Aubameyang had time and space to drill a blistering strike past Pope, sparking a fevered touchline celebration from Emery as Arsenal's early-season momentum gathered pace.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was Arsenal's match-winner again as the Gabon forward sealed a 2-1 victory against Burnley to extend his side's perfect start to the Premier League season on Saturday.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was Arsenal's match-winner again as the Gabon forward sealed a 2-1 victory against Burnley to extend his side's perfect start to the Premier League season on Saturday. Aubameyang had netted the only goal in last weekend's win at Newcastle and he emulated that crucial contribution with another decisive strike at the Emirates Stadium. Alexandre Lacazette's first goal of the season had given Arsenal the lead before Ashley Barnes equalised for Burnley just before half-time. It was a encouraging afternoon for Arsenal manager Unai Emery as his widely written-off team continued to bounce back from their dismal end to last season. Failing to finish in the top four and losing the Europa League final against Chelsea robbed Arsenal of a Champions League place and led to a summer of recriminations as fans vented their frustrations. But Emery has quietly assembled a more vibrant squad than he had in his troubled first campaign. With two successive wins to start the season for the first time in 10 years, the early signs are promising for Arsenal ahead of sterner tests against Liverpool and Tottenham in their next two games. As well as goals for Arsenal's two main strikers, there was a virtuoso performance from on-loan Real Madrid midfielder Dani Ceballos, who had two assists in his first start. Club record signing Nicolas Pepe impressed after coming off the bench as half-time and although former Chelsea defender David Luiz was hardly rock solid on his debut, Emery's back four did enough to keep Burnley at bay. Mesut Ozil was again absent from the Gunners squad after the German midfielder was ill earlier this week. Ozil missed the Newcastle match because of "further security fears" after being involved in a carjacking incident with team-mate Sead Kolasinac in July. But Ozil's absence wasn't a hinderance against a Burnley team who suffered their eighth successive loss at the Emirates. Lacazette, back from an ankle injury that meant he was only a substitute at Newcastle, came close to putting Arsenal in front when he met a Sokratis flick with a close-range header that Nick Pope tipped over. Deft touch It was only a temporary reprieve for Burnley as Emery's side took the lead from the resulting corner in the 13th minute. Ceballos's corner reached Lacazette at the near post and he showed impressive strength to hold off Erik Pieters as he turned away from a gaggle of Burnley defenders, his determined effort sending him slipping to the turf but not before he guided his shot through Pope's legs. Ceballos showed a deft touch and quick feet to escape the attentions of his marker, drawing a huge cheer from the Arsenal fans who are already comparing him to Gunners great Cesc Fabregas. Reiss Nelson squandered a chance to double Arsenal's lead when he fired too close to Pope, who also denied Matteo Guendouzi after another attack sliced through the Burnley defence. But Burnley drew level in the 43rd minute when Dwight McNeil's shot deflected to Barnes and he took advantage of Arsenal's sloppy marking to poke home from close range for his third goal of the season. Nelson had a goal ruled out for offside against Nacho Monreal moments later in what proved to be the young winger's last contribution before he was replaced by Pepe at half-time. Pope was in fine form and he pushed away Ceballos's shot from the edge of the area, but even the Burnley keeper couldn't stem the tide forever. In the 64th minute, Ceballos tenaciously won possession and found Aubameyang, who accelerated towards the Burnley area. With Burnley's defenders backing off, Aubameyang had time and space to drill a blistering strike past Pope, sparking a fevered touchline celebration from Emery as Arsenal's early-season momentum gathered pace.

Aubameyang sinks Burnley to maintain Arsenal's winning start

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