In the blockbuster matchweek three of the **Premier League** season, **Arsenal**'s title defence faces another big test as they host **Xabi Alonso**'s revitalised Chelsea side.
There have been arguments to suggest that this game will feature the best defence against the best attack, though for the Gunners, they will be hoping to stamp their authority on one of the sides that could potentially prove to be title challengers.
**Arsenal's resolute defence vs Chelsea's free-flowing attack**
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Across the opening two games, Chelsea were the top scorers in the division with **seven goals**, while Arsenal are yet to concede a goal, and have allowed just one shot on target in their wins over Coventry and Aston Villa.
That record will be tested today by a front line of **Morgan Rogers**, **João Pedro** and **Cole Palmer**, a trio which has had plenty of people talking during the opening weeks of the season.
There are questions over who will start alongside **Gabriel** in Arsenal's back four. **Cristhian Mosquera** came off late, though [Mikel Arteta did confirm](https://www.vavel.com/en/football/2026/09/04/arsenal/1270163-arteta-analyses-midfield-options-from-squad-victory-against-villa.html) that it was more of a precaution against a potentially serious issue.
**Ezri Konsa** was handed his Arsenal debut in the process, and could be in line for a start at the Emirates.
In this fixture last season, set-pieces were key as Arsenal crawled over the line for a **2-1 win**, with **David Raya** having to pull off a pair of late saves to deny Alejandro Garnacho and Pedro.
Saka aiming for a third goal in a row
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> Saka has scored in both games so far this season (Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images)
**Bukayo Saka** has enjoyed a fruitful start to the new season, scoring in both of Arsenal's Premier League games so far. The last player for the Gunners to do so was **Alexandre Lacazette** back in the 20/21 season.
During his Premier League career, Bukayo Saka has scored twice and assisted four goals against the Blues. Saka said after the Villa win, when asked about what to expect from Chelsea, that they would "see on Sunday".
After a couple of injury-disrupted seasons, Arsenal's main man will be hoping to continue his lightning start to **26/27** with a third goal against Sunday's opponents.