Sometimes a single match can tell you everything you need to know about a team’s ambitions.
For Arsenal, their 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest was more than just three points — it was a loud reminder that Mikel Arteta’s men are very much in the race for the Premier League crown.
Coming off the disappointment of a loss at Anfield before the international break, the Gunners bounced back in style.
Goals from Martin Zubimendi — including a stunner that will live long in the highlight reels — and a tidy finish from Viktor Gyokeres made life miserable for Ange Postecoglou in his first game in charge of Forest.
A Bench That Screams Title Credentials
Last season, Arsenal’s starting XI almost picked itself.
Injuries to stars like Bukayo Saka and Kai Havertz often left Arteta scrambling for replacements, and the drop-off in quality was noticeable. This year feels very different.
Against Forest, Arsenal didn’t have Rice in the starting line-up, Saliba wasn’t even in the squad, and Saka and Havertz were still sidelined.
Yet the team didn’t look weaker for it. Cristhian Mosquera and Mikel Merino both stepped up, with Mosquera in particular putting in an impressive shift.
What’s striking is the depth of options: if Saka isn’t available, there’s Noni Madueke; if Havertz misses out, Gyokeres can step in; Martinelli out? Eberechi Eze is there. Even without Saliba, Mosquera is ready to fill the gap.
For the first time in years, Arteta has a bench that doesn’t just cover absences — it strengthens Arsenal’s title hopes.
Mosquera’s Rapid Rise
When Arsenal signed Cristhian Mosquera from Valencia for £13 million, it was seen as a smart investment for the future.
But the 21-year-old is showing he’s ready right now.
He impressed at Anfield when thrown into the fire against Liverpool, holding his own against the champions.
Against Forest, he looked even more assured — comfortable on the ball, calm under pressure, and strong in his defensive positioning.
Chris Wood barely got a sniff thanks to Mosquera’s sharp reading of the game.
For Arteta, this is golden. He no longer needs to rush Saliba back to fitness, because Mosquera looks more than capable of handling Premier League minutes.
And with his performances improving each week, it’s clear he’s not here to simply make up the numbers — he’s here to compete.
Zubimendi Adds Goals to His Arsenal
Much was made of Arsenal beating Manchester City, Liverpool, and Real Madrid to the signing of Martin Zubimendi, known mainly for his defensive nous and midfield control.
But against Forest, the Spaniard showed another side of his game: an eye for spectacular goals.
His first strike was breathtaking — a volley from outside the box that whistled into the net after a defensive clearance.
It was the kind of goal that fans will be replaying all season. Later, he added a second with a towering header from Leandro Trossard’s cross.
It was Zubimendi’s first career brace in 240 appearances. While he won’t be expected to score regularly, just knowing he can produce moments like this makes Arsenal even more dangerous.
In tight games, one unexpected goal from midfield could make all the difference.
Postecoglou Adjusts His Style
For Ange Postecoglou, this wasn’t the debut he would have hoped for with Nottingham Forest.
Known for his high defensive line and relentless attacking philosophy at Spurs, he tried a more cautious approach this time.
Whether by necessity or design, Forest spent most of the game pinned back in their own half, unable to live with Arsenal’s pace and creativity.
While the result was a heavy defeat, Postecoglou showed he’s willing to adapt his methods — a trait he wasn’t always credited with in north London.
The lesson here? Arsenal are simply too strong to be taken on recklessly, and even Ange knows when to dial things back.
What This Win Means
Arsenal’s victory over Forest wasn’t just routine — it was a statement.
They dominated without their biggest names, proved their squad depth can handle the demands of a title race, and showcased emerging talents ready to step up.
With Zubimendi scoring goals, Mosquera growing in stature, and Arteta blessed with quality options in every position, the Gunners look more balanced and dangerous than ever.
If there were doubts about their ability to go the distance after the Anfield loss, they’ve been answered emphatically.
Arsenal are here to challenge — and they have the tools to finish the job this time.