Arsenal got their quest for a first top-flight title in 20 years underway with a narrow 2-1 victory over Nottingham Forest on the opening weekend of the Premier League season.
The Gunners followed up their Community Shield triumph over Manchester City with an assured display at Emirates Stadium, but their joy was slightly tempered by concerns over an injury to summer signing, Jurrien Timber.
Forest were under the cosh for long spells but should have sneaked in front on 11 minutes when Brennan Johnson somehow failed to hit the target after being sent clean through on Aaron Ramsdale.
It proved to be a significant miss as the hosts took the lead on 26 minutes when Eddie Nketiah finished off some mesmerising work from Gabriel Martinelli on the left.
Mikel Arteta’s side then doubled their advantage just past the half hour as Bukayo Saka cut in from the right and sizzled a sensational 25-yard shot into the far corner. It was a strike that gave former team-mate and Forest debutant Matt Turner no chance in the visiting goal.
Arsenal continued to dictate following the restart but suffered a blow when Timber was forced off with what looked like a knee injury he had sustained just prior to the break.
Another new recruit, Declan Rice came close to putting the result beyond doubt when he twice forced Turner into action before the away side pulled a goal back eight minutes from time through substitute Taiwo Awoniyi.
It set up a barnstorming, end-to-end finale but Forest could not snatch a late leveller and The Gunners held on to prevail.
Next up, Arsenal visit Crystal Palace a week on Monday. Forest host Sheffield United on Friday.