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Publication Date: Saturday, September 12, 2020 2:24 AM
Gabriel Magalhaes marked his Arsenal debut with a goal, but it was Willian who grabbed the headlines with three assists in a comfortable 3-0 win at Fulham at the opening of the Premier League curtain.
The Cottagers are back in the Premier League after just one season in the Championship. Scott Parker’s team rallied after beating Brentford in the play-off final.
However, they caught a cold just eight minutes after their return. Alexandre Lacazette chimed in closely after Willian’s good work.
The Brazilian – a free signing of Chelsea – then hit the post with a free kick when Arsenal threatened another before the break.
However, it was 2-0 with four minutes into the restart when Willian curled up on a corner kick and Gabriel He rose higher to nod past Marek Rodak up close.
Fulham were now forced to come to Arsenal and a graceful team goal shattered them for the third.
With the Cottagers pressing high, Arsenal played their way from the back with some smart passes. Willian then picked up the ball before throwing a beautiful cross ball to Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
The prolific Gunners captain still had work to do, but he got some room for himself before he landed a good shot to the ceiling of the net.
Another great team goal from Mikel Arteta @Arsenal 🙌
Going from front to back, Captain Aubameyang with a sublime shot 🔥 pic.twitter.com/732lVRDbJG
– Football at BT Sport (@btsportfootball) September 12, 2020
Willian to Arteta’s applause
Mikel Arteta opted to take Willian out in the 75th minute with Nicolas Pepe in his place. It was a debut for the Brazilian’s memory and one that earned Arteta recognition.
The Cottagers, who started with Aleksander Mitrovic on the bench, rarely threatened. The result serves as a great wake-up call for Parker. They will have to raise their standards if they want to avoid relegation again this season.
This Fulham team is so bad it makes you believe that Arsenal are a force to be reckoned with again.
– Paddy Power (@paddypower) September 12, 2020
See how the party unfolded and view photos of Craven Cottage through our Live Center.
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