Report, end result, targets as Merino condemns Blues to fourth right away defeat

Mikel Merino’s Twentieth-minute header prolonged Arsenal’s unbeaten run in opposition to Chelsea to seven Premier League matches and dented the Blues’ hopes of a top-four end on the Emirates Stadium.

Makeshift centre-forward Merino flicked Martin Odegaard’s nook past goalkeeper Robert Sanchez to cap a dominant efficiency by his aspect, who went shut earlier than the opener via pictures by Declan Rice and Leandro Trossard and a Jurrien Timber header.

Chelsea went closest when Marc Cucurella’s highly effective shot went via David Raya’s palms and dribbled simply previous a submit, however Enzo Maresca’s aspect have now suffered 4 successive league away defeats, final profitable on their top-flight travels at Tottenham on December 8.

Maresca needed to make do with out high scorer Cole Palmer, with the Italian revealing earlier than kick-off that the England worldwide had sustained a minor harm.

Mikel Merino has finished it once more! 🔥 pic.twitter.com/NJlaATsgL6

— Sky Sports activities Premier League (@SkySportsPL) March 16, 2025

Arsenal v Chelsea: Merino masters ahead position

Except for late spells of Chelsea strain in both half, Arsenal had been worthy winners as they prolonged their unbeaten run within the fixture to seven matches, all of which have been within the Premier League.

Merino’s aim was their first from a nook in 52 makes an attempt, relationship again to Dominic Solanke’s personal aim for Tottenham within the derby on the Emirates Stadium on January 15.

The Spain worldwide is a midfielder however was utilized in his new place for the primary time as an alternative in Arsenal’s 2-0 win at Leicester Metropolis on February 15, rewarding supervisor Mikel Arteta’s improvisational resolution with each targets.

Arsenal’s 7-1 win at PSV within the Champions League on March 4 featured a aim and help by Merino, however his aim in opposition to Chelsea was his first within the league since his double in opposition to the Foxes.

Jurrien Timber tells Enzo Maresca to ‘attempt tougher’ earlier than a handshake between the pair 👀🤝 pic.twitter.com/ajLREB7DYX

— Sky Sports activities Premier League (@SkySportsPL) March 16, 2025

Premier League desk

With 9 league video games remaining and a 12-point benefit over Arsenal for Liverpool, solely a collapse by the leaders would give Arteta’s group an opportunity of profitable the title.

They’re, nevertheless, 4 factors away from third-placed Nottingham Forest, whereas Chelsea’s hopes of guaranteeing a Champions League place by ending within the high 4 have been dented.

The Convention League quarter-finalists occupy fourth however are solely a degree above Manchester Metropolis and two away from Newcastle – who’ve a recreation in hand – and Brighton & Hove Albion.

Arsenal are subsequent in motion once they host Fulham, who went eighth by profitable at house to Tottenham on Sunday, within the Premier League on April 1 (7.45pm GMT).

Chelsea’s subsequent recreation can also be within the league, internet hosting Spurs on April 3 (8pm).