It took a while, but Arsenal's forward line is back in business. It had been long nine games since they last scored two or more goals in a game.
Yet, when Fulham came to town, a team that has never won away at the Gunners, it marked the time to really up the ante in their pursuit of the Premier League title.
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A week ago, there was a nervous and anxious atmosphere inside the Emirates Stadium against Newcastle United. However, anxiety turned to ecstasy within a barnstorming 45 minutes that saw Bukayo Saka and Viktor Gyokeres secure a 3-0 win at an absolute canter.
For Saka, in particular, it marked a timely return to form.
Saka returns to form in stunning fashion
There have been concerns about Saka's form this season but write him off at your peril.
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During an injury-hit campaign, the winger had only scored six Premier League goals and supplied five prior to the win over Fulham. By his mighty fine standards, it had been a really poor season. He was missing the explosiveness that his actions usually carry.
Yet, on Saturday, that all returned. Saka added a goal and an assist to his tally in devastating fashion, linking up with Gyokeres in a game that injected a load of positivity back into the home support.
Saka vs Fulham
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Key passes
Big chances created
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Successful dribbles
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The Englishman had Raul Jimenez on toast in the build-up to the opener, picking up the ball on the right, driving towards the Mexican and then leaving him on the deck as he pulled away towards the byline.
Saka played a simple pass across the box and Gyokeres could not miss from a matter of yards out.
The pair linked up brilliantly for the second as well. This time, it was the big Swede who acted as the supply line. The striker ran the channels brilliantly well all game and it was another run down the right that led to the goal.
He darted onto a ball in behind from Eberechi Eze before holding possession up. Saka made a run inside and Gyokeres took two Fulham players out of the game with a brilliant incisive pass. The Arsenal winger still had plenty to do but whipped the ball beyond former Arsenal goalkeeper Bernd Leno at his near post.
If Saka can play like this for the rest of the season, then it will undoubtedly boost their title hopes considerably. Arsenal's star player in this sort of mood has given a lift to everyone at the club.
That said, he will need help from a forward line that hasn't always fired. Investment will be needed in the summer, but what if they've already agreed to sign their new Saka?
Arsenal's new Saka is on his way to the Emirates
Last summer was all about finding a new centre forward to lead the line at the Emirates. This summer, it should be about strengthening their wide positions, something they should have done nearly a year ago.
Noni Madueke has improved the strength in depth on the flanks, but he only has two goals in the league all season. Gabriel Martinelli only has one Premier League goal to his name and Leandro Trossard is without a goal in any competition in 2026. He's gone 23 matches without beating the 'keeper.
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So, a proven name is required. PSG duo Bradley Barcola and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia have both been linked but it feels unlikely they will leave the Champions League holders behind.
Despite that, Andrea Berta has been busy at work outside of the window. Indeed, just prior to the winter, the Gunners announced that they had agreed two new transfers. Teenage twins, Edwin and Holger Quintero were announced to have agreed pre-contract terms with the club.
The Ecuadorian pair currently play for Independiente del Valle in their homeland, a club renowned for having one of the best youth systems in the entire world.
Of late, Independiente have produced not just Arsenal's Piero Hincapie, but also Chelsea's Moises Caicedo and PSG's William Pacho. While there is no certainty that the Quintero brothers will go on to have a career as successful as that trio, there is great hope for their future.
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While Holger is more of a maverick attacking midfielder, Edwin is a right winger and a left-footed one at that. You can already see why the Saka comparison has emerged here.
Hailed as a "10/10 talent" by scout Jacek Kulig, Como scout Ben Mattinson further describes the teenager as a "skilful player who constantly uses flair to fool defenders and make smart passes."
Mattinson continued: "He has the ability to run games and create something out of nothing. His quick feet and delayed touches deceive players, but he also has the vision to pick out runners."
An explosive and creative right winger, there are plenty of similarities to Saka here. They both thrive in one-v-one situations and are incredibly deadly when cutting inside onto their favoured left foot.
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Aged just 16, it won't be long before we see the Quintero twins in action, but we will have to wait a little bit. They won't officially move to London until the summer of 2027, when they turn 18.
By then, Arsenal could have Max Dowman as a first-team regular. Just imagine him alongside Saka and Edwin Quintero. Arsenal's future looks to be in safe hands.
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