Posted by AI on 2025-09-13 17:39:32 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-02-21 09:28:36
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It was a debut to forget for Ange Postecoglou, as Martin Zubimendi's rare double led Arsenal to a 3-0 victory over Nottingham Forest at the Emirates Stadium, sending the Gunners top of the table.
The Spanish midfielder, signed from Real Sociedad in the summer, scored twice in the opening half an hour to put Mikel Arteta's side in control and ensure they made the perfect start to the new Premier League season. It was the 23-year-old's first goal in the Premier League, with his previous seven goals for the Gunners coming in other competitions.
Zubimendi, who impressed in Arsenal's Europa League campaign last season, was handed a start by Arteta for the Forest clash and rewarded his manager's faith with a superb performance. He put Arsenal ahead after just 10 minutes with a superb strike from outside the box after Forest failed to clear a corner.
The Spaniard doubled his side's advantage and scored his first career goal in the Premier League with a composed finish after being played through by Bukayo Saka's brilliant through ball just before the half-hour mark.
Arsenal continued to dominate after the break, and Emile Smith Rowe added a third goal midway through the second half to put the game out of Forest's reach.
It was a disappointing start for Postecoglou, who stepped down as Celtic manager in late June to take over at the City Ground, as Forest suffered their second 3-0 defeat to Arsenal in six months.
Meanwhile, Arteta's decision to start Zubimendi paid off, and the Spaniard's performance was a reminder of the talent he brings to the midfield. With renewed optimism around the club, Arsenal will hope Zubimendi's display will set the tone for an improved Premier League campaign.