Arsenal cruised to a dominant 5-0 victory over Leeds United at the Emirates Stadium, but the win was overshadowed by injuries to key players Martin Ødegaard and Bukayo Saka. The victory puts Arsenal top of the Premier League.

The Gunners were already without Kai Havertz, and the potential absence of Ødegaard and Saka poses a significant concern for manager Mikel Arteta ahead of their upcoming match against champions Liverpool.

Arsenal's goals came from Jurrien Timber, who scored twice. Bukayo Saka also found the net before being forced off. Viktor Gyökeres, making his home debut, bagged a brace, including a late penalty.

Ødegaard's injury occurred in the first half after a challenge from Leeds midfielder Anton Stach. He appeared to suffer a shoulder injury and was replaced by Ethan Nwaneri in the 38th minute. Saka went down in the second half with what seemed to be a hamstring issue. He was substituted in the 53rd minute, with Leandro Trossard taking his place.

Despite the injuries, there were positives for Arsenal. New signing Eberechi Eze was presented to the crowd before the game. 15-year-old Max Dowman made a dazzling debut, winning the late penalty converted by Gyökeres. Timber's two goals from Declan Rice corners also highlighted Arsenal's set-piece prowess.

The victory was soured by the sight of both Odegaard and Saka leaving the pitch with injuries. "You can read his lips," said Gary Neville on co-commentary for Sky Sports regarding Saka's injury. "He said: 'Oh my God'. This is something he doesn't like. It's a tough start, he's a tough kid. He doesn't go down injured easily, if ever".

Arsenal will be hoping that the injuries to Ødegaard and Saka are not serious, as they prepare for a challenging match against Liverpool at Anfield. The Gunners have already lost Kai Havertz to injury. With the quick turnaround and the importance of the game, Arteta will be keen to have his key players available. The extent of the injuries to Odegaard and Saka are yet to be revealed.