Arsenal returned to the top of the Premier League table with a 3-1 victory over struggling Chelsea, thanks to a brace from Martin Ødegaard. However, they will undoubtedly be awaiting a defeat for Manchester City, who have two games in hand over the leaders. Arsenal led 3-0 at halftime as captain Ødegaard found space twice in Chelsea's weak defense to score in the 18th and 31st minutes, and Gabriel Jesus added the third goal from close range just 11 minutes before the break.
With this win, Arsenal's first in five matches, they boosted their points tally to 78, two points ahead of second-placed City, who have a chance to reclaim the top spot when they host West Ham United on Wednesday.
Following a 4-1 loss to City, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta made three changes, including giving forward Leandro Trossard a starting role instead of Gabriel Martinelli, and his team dominated the match against their London rivals from the outset.
Granit Xhaka, who provided assists for Ødegaard's goals, nearly opened the scoring himself in the early minutes but was denied by Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga. Kepa also saved several attempts in the second half.
Chelsea, who have lost six out of six matches in all competitions under interim manager Frank Lampard, at least managed to score their second goal in eight games when Noni Madueke netted in the 65th minute against Aaron Ramsdale.
