Mikel Arteta's New Year's resolution of a first Premier League title at Arsenal came one step closer after his genius decision turned the Gunners' clash with Bournemouth on its head.
The Cherries, who have been struggling in recent weeks, took a shock lead after they capitalised on a howler from Gabriel, who has recently made his return to the Arsenal backline after a stint on the sideline.
The Brazilian had been trying to play the ball across the face of his own goal, but suffocated by the Bournemouth press, he played the ball into the path of Evanilson, who steered the ball past David Raya and into the back of the net.
Declan Rice of Arsenal celebrates scoring his team's third goal with teammates during the Premier League match between Bournemouth and Arsenal at Vitality Stadium on January 03, 2026 in Bournemouth, England.
Arsenal came from behind to beat Bournemouth (Image: Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
Celebrations could almost be heard for the East side of Manchester, after Manchester City dropped points over on New Year's Day against a resolute Sunderland.
However, it was Gabriel, himself, that stopped any nervous when he smashed the ball into the Bournemouth net following some incredible play from Noni Madueke.
And with it level at the break, Arteta had the chance to address his team and, more importantly, the Bournemouth press. The Cherries key tactic, that yieled so many results earlier in the season, had started to falter at the end of 2025.
Mikel Arteta
Mikel Arteta's team are becoming a second half side (Image: Getty Images)
However, against Arsenal, the press was back to its best and the Arsenal defence needed to find a way to beat it. Arteta, presumably, addressed it in his team-talk, with the Gunners looking better in the second half.
It's a growing trend for the Gunners, taking the game away from their opponents in the second half.
And it wouldn't take long for Declan Rice to fire Arsenal ahead. Rice has been the man of the moment for Arsenal this season, and he got a second to double their lead in the 71st minute.
Declan Rice netted a brace on Saturday evening
Declan Rice netted a brace on Saturday evening (Image: AP)
A moment of magic from Eli Junior Kroupi threatened to set up a grandstand finish, but Arsenal, after a brief wobble, showed the steel of champions to see the game out.
The Gunners are now six points clear at the top of the table and seven clear of Manchester City - who dropped to third following Aston Villa's victory over Nottingham Forest on Saturday lunchtime.
Pep Guardiola's side can cut the gap against Chelsea on Sunday, but Arsenal are in the driving seat for a first Premier League title since 2004. It's five in a row now for Arsenal, and, maybe, just maybe, it's their year.