Former Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud, 37, will sign a contract with Major League Soccer (MLS) club Los Angeles FC and will join them on a free transfer in the summer when his AC Milan deal comes to an end. (RMC Sport - in French), external
Arsenal 5-0 Chelsea: What Arteta saidpublished at 22:59 23 April
22:59 23 April
Image source, Getty Images
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta speaking to TNT Sports: "Very happy with the win, with the amount of chances and goals we scored. And with the clean sheet as well it shows the consistency.
"We weren't disciplined enough with some stuff we did in the first half and we needed to be more disciplined and we did that in the second half."
On Martin Odegaard: "We agreed that he was a player with huge talent and he could grow with us. We were convinced he could add something special to the team.
"That's always a question - How are you going to handle a different role [as captain]? He has done it so naturally and he is loved by everyone. With the love that he has, it is enough for everyone to wan to follow him."
On impact this win can have: "It is a big London derby and we know what it means for the fans. We will enjoy it and rest and get ready for the next one.
"What I would like is that the players can manage themselves in the dressing room. You have to leave them some space. They know what they are playing for. That's what holds the team together. My role is to demand of them and also in the right moments make them believe they can do it.
"We have a lot of games coming up. Let's enjoy tonight and let's go back to work."
'The perfect night'published at 22:40 23 April
22:40 23 April
Image source, Getty Images
Arsenal goalscorer Ben White speaking to TNT Sports: "We know we can score goals and today it was a quick game and it was important to put the ball away when we had the chance."
On if he meant his second goal: "I don't know. I'll let everyone else decide!"
On Arsenal's resilience: "It's not just the defence keeping the clean sheets, the wingers track back as well."
Leandro Trossard speaking to TNT Sports: "I think the early goal helped us and after that we played so well. We had a lot of chances and we turned them into goals. It's a great night.
"They say clean sheets help you win games. We know if we score the goal we can win 1-0. But, obviously, we want to go for more. Today is the perfect night. I think everyone works so well and hard. I am really happy to be here."
On the title race: "We can only do our own job and that's winning games. We are on track now and we will try and win the rest of the games and we will see what happens."
Arsenal 5-0 Chelsea: Key statspublished at 22:29 23 April
22:29 23 April
Here are the key facts and figures from Arsenal's home win over Chelsea in the Premier League on Tuesday.
Arsenal recorded their biggest ever victory against Chelsea across all competitions (5-0), while this was the Blues' heaviest defeat in a London derby since losing 6-0 to Queens Park Rangers in March 1986.
The Gunners have won three London derbies in league this season by five or more goals (5-0 v Crystal Palace, 6-0 v West Ham and 5-0 v Chelsea), the most such victories in a single campaign by a team in English league history.
Chelsea have conceded 57 goals in the Premier League this season - their most in a single campaign in the competition (overtaking their 55 from the 1994-95 and 1996-97 seasons).
Arsenal had 13 shots in the first half and 14 in the second half against Chelsea (27 in total) – indeed, these are now their two highest shot totals in a half of football against them on record in the Premier League (since 2003-04).
Kai Havertz became the first player to score a brace against Chelsea in the Premier League having previously played for them in the competition.
The Blues' starting XI in this game had an average age of 23 years and 169 days - their youngest ever for a Premier League match against Arsenal. In fact, only Leeds United in 1999-2000 (10) have named more starting XI's with an average age under 24 in a Premier League campaign than Chelsea this term (seven).
Full-time: Arsenal 5-0 Chelseapublished at 22:04 23 April
22:04 23 April
Arsenal moved three points clear at the top of the Premier League and made a potentially significant improvement to their goal difference with a crushing victory over Chelsea at Emirates Stadium.
The Gunners backed up their win at Wolverhampton Wanderers with an emphatic performance helped by a dreadful display from a Chelsea side who looked like they wanted the season to end now after their FA Cup semi-final defeat by Manchester City.
Arsenal suffered last week with a home Premier League defeat by Aston Villa and a Champions League quarter-final exit to Bayern Munich but the manner of this win demonstrated the title momentum is now back with Mikel Arteta's team.
Leandro Trossard settled any early nerves when he beat Chelsea keeper Djordje Petrovic at his near post and while the visitors occasionally threatened in the first half, Nicolas Jackson missing a clear headed chance, Arsenal simply ran riot after the break.
The second goal Arsenal craved came as Ben White turned in after Chelsea failed to clear a corner before former Stamford Bridge forward Kai Havertz struck twice in eight minutes, the second a quite sumptuous finish from Martin Odegaard's magnificent pass.
As Chelsea subsided in embarrassing fashion, White looped his second over Petrovic. It pushed their goal difference up to +56 - 13 better than Liverpool's and 12 ahead of Manchester City - on what was pretty much the perfect night for Arsenal.
Were you at the match or did you follow it from elsewhere?
'Raya could keep Arsenal in this title race'published at 12:32 23 April
12:32 23 April
Oli Price-Bates Fan writer
Arsenal’s progress this season is clear, even if they again fall short up against the behemoth that is Manchester City.
The Gunners were controlled and convincing in their 2-0 win over Wolves on Saturday, and made it six Premier League away games in a row without conceding a goal.
This defensive record is achieved through brilliant defending from the front but standing at the base is David Raya, a summer signing to which many raised their eyebrows.
Raya's performance against Wolves epitomised his qualities and highlighted the edge he has on Aaron Ramsdale in that role.
The Spaniard was very calm in possession and completed 30 passes at a 76.7% success rate (14.3% higher than Ramsdale's average last season).
He also claimed several crosses and high balls in the box.
Both of these qualities bring a calm to the Arsenal backline and relieve pressure.
He has not been perfect, but it has become clear to most now that Raya has been an upgrade.
With Arsenal’s attack slightly stuttering, particularly in games they have failed to win, it will be Raya and the rest of the defence that could keep Arsenal in this title race.
'Grinding Gunners' and gutsy Klopppublished at 12:11 23 April
12:11 23 April
Pat Nevin Former Scotland and Chelsea winger
Image source, Getty Images
At the business end of the league, Arsenal ground out another hard fought three points, this time up at Wolves. Dismissing the Gunners as ‘bottlers’ after losing to Aston Villa last week was extremely unfair.
This is the Premier League and if you have a dip, even an understandable one caused by two ultimately heartbreaking Champions League games against the mighty Bayern Munich, then a team like Villa are always capable of capitalising.
The grinding Gunners were back, however, and Liverpool did the same thing in a difficult looking game at Fulham. It would appear their demise has been exaggerated too.
For all the talk of resolve of the two title pretenders, it was Jurgen Klopp who impressed me most this time.
It is hard to leave out regular starters such as Darwin Nunez, Alexis Mac Allister and Mo Salah in a must-win game, but he did it.
It was a huge call that few would have had the guts to make, but it turned out to be the right one.
Well done, Jurgen. Your time may be fast running out at Liverpool, but you are still at the top of your game.
'I've got very little doubt that they won't get the job done'published at 11:04 23 April
11:04 23 April
Image source, Getty Images
Former Arsenal defender Lee Dixon spoke to BBC Radio 5 Live before the Gunners' match against Chelsea on Tuesday: "We saw last year what the pressure can do to a set of players. They fell away, but this year something seems a little bit different and that's because they've hopefully learnt from what it's like.
"They can't afford a draw. They can't afford anything other than winning every game now because you can almost bet on the fact that Manchester City will do that.
"They didn't play brilliantly against Wolves, but it was a great result to get the points when the pressure was on. They've got an opportunity to put another three points on the board [against Chelsea]."
On Chelsea: "I couldn't believe what I was seeing [in their FA Cup semi final v Manchester City]. Their lack of ability to put the ball in the net haunted them again.
"The way that Chelsea play, sometimes you think 'why are they where they are in the league because they play really well?'
"Other times you think it's exactly where they deserve to be.
"If they find a way to put the ball in the back of the net they'll travel up the league next season for sure. That's Pochettino's problem, inconsistency is rife throughout the squad.
"They'll be a danger. Arsenal have to forget about who they are playing, get their formula right and they will win the game. I've got very little doubt that they won't get the job done tonight and pile the pressure on City."
Arteta eyes the marginspublished at 08:35 23 April
08:35 23 April
George Cummins BBC Sport journalist
Another pivotal game in Arsenal's season as they look to extend their lead in the title race to three points if they can beat Chelsea at the Emirates this evening.
Mikel Arteta was in good form yesterday as he embraced the challenge of winning and taking on Champions Manchester City at the final hurdle.
“Winning matches means you bring the margins smaller," he said.
"That’s what we will try to do and if we do that the pressure can increase that’s for sure. Winning has a consequence, making the margins shorter.”
The manager was also asked if Arsenal are already making plans to take this team to the next level.
“We have a few ideas," he replied.
"We have to see how will we finish first and what we are capable of doing. Then sit down again and review everything that we have done and see how we can make another step or two steps forward. That’s what this team, this club and our people are demanding. To keep moving forward because we aren’t satisfied with where we are.”
I believe that Arsenal's priorities this summer will be a new striker and a new goalkeeper with Aaron Ramsdale expected to leave for first team football.
There was a huge boost for Arsenal’s title challenge as Jurrien Timber made a return to the grass after eight months out with an anterior cruciate ligament injury. He played and scored in an 2 -2 draw against Blackburn Under-21s at Ewood Park on Monday. The defender can play anywhere across the back line and Arteta likes his ability to step in as an inverted midfielder when attacking.
Sutton's predictions: Arsenal v Chelseapublished at 08:35 23 April
08:35 23 April
Chris Sutton is making predictions for every Premier League game this season against a variety of guests. For this week's matches on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, he takes on actor Zack Morris, star of new thriller film Jericho Ridge.
Sutton's prediction: 2-1
Arsenal bounced back from a bad week really well against Wolves on Saturday and won comfortably, but Chelsea put in a good performance too despite losing their FA Cup semi-final to Manchester City.
This feels like a really dangerous game for the Gunners, and the rivalry between the two clubs is going to be a big factor as well.
Chelsea probably should have beaten them at Stamford Bridge in October but let a two-goal lead slip late on.
They are making progress under Mauricio Pochettino but they still have a habit of shooting themselves in the foot like they did that day.
So, I am backing Arsenal to find a way of winning this one - although again it is going to be extremely close.
Zack's prediction: 1-2
I've got some family and friends who are Arsenal fans, so I am going to annoy them and say Chelsea will win.
Gossip: Marquee signings expectedpublished at 07:44 23 April
07:44 23 April
Arsenal are expecting to make three or four marquee additions this summer as they complete an overhaul of their squad, with Sporting Lisbon and Sweden striker Viktor Gyokeres, 25, their main target. (Football Transfers), external
Barcelona have joined Arsenal in being interested in £90m-rated Newcastle United and Sweden striker Alexander Isak, 24, with the Spanish club hoping to strike a deal as the Magpies look to navigate financial fair play rules. (Sun), external
What are Arsenal doing to be more sustainable?published at 16:02 22 April
16:02 22 April
Nicola Pearson BBC Sport journalist
Image source, Getty Images
Monday, 22 April marks Earth Day - a day in the international calendar that provides the opportunity to reflect, make change and understand more about sustainability and the impacts of climate change.
Sport and football are not immune to these issues and there has been increasing awareness of their relationship to the environment over the past few years.
Football has a global footprint and, as it continues to grow, it has been subject to questions and criticism over some of the decisions that could hinder efforts in reducing its impact, including expanding Uefa cup competitions and the men's Fifa World Cup.
The effects of adverse weather related to climate change has been increasingly felt, with a study last year showing extreme weather has affected 40% of football players and spectators.
But, football and its fanbase also have an opportunity to be part of the solution, with clubs like Forest Green Rovers showing how the sport's environmental footprint can be reduced.
We have taken a look into some of the key things Arsenal are doing to become more sustainable:
The Gunners became the first Premier League club to sign up to the UN Sports for Climate Action Framework.
They have set and are working towards targets of 50% emission reduction by 2030 and to be net-zero by 2040.
They are into their fifth season of using reusable cups at the stadium.
The training base has wildflower meadows and two beehives, and the club have an 'Arsenal Forest' in Kenya.
They have a water recycling system at the training ground that can harvest 15 to 20 million litres of water a year.
One important area all Premier League clubs can address to reduce their carbon footprint is their travel, as shown in BBC Sport research.
Why is this important?
Football For Future is a non-profit organisation working with stakeholders across football to create a more environmentally sustainable culture and founder Elliot Arthur-Worsop told BBC Sport: "Climate change will be the defining challenge of our generation, and the future of football will be affected too.
"We're already seeing the impacts, with more than 120,000 English grassroots games being called off annually, and major tournaments such as the World Cup and Afcon being moved because of extreme weather.
"Beyond the pitch, the climate crisis threatens livelihoods and global food and water security.
"With its unparalleled social influence, football has an opportunity to inspire global climate action, from micro-behaviours to essential policy change."
Arteta on referees, 'feeling fresh' and facing 'incredible' Pochettinopublished at 14:35 22 April
14:35 22 April
Nat Hayward BBC Sport journalist
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has been speaking to the media before Tuesday's Premier League match at home to Chelsea.
Here are the key lines from his news conference:
Arteta confirmed Jurrien Timber will play for the under-21 side this evening as he continues his recovery from an ACL injury and will be assessed to see if he can feature against Tottenham on Sunday.
On Saturday's win at Wolves: "It was a good test to see how we react to certain obstacles and how much we want it. When some people are questioning is when we have to step up and we did that."
He wants his side to build on the 2-0 win at Molineux: "Same message - keep doing what we've been doing. Focus on the task, prepare well. The boys look ready to go again. London derby, massive game for us. We have prepared in the best possible way."
On recent controversy over the standard of officiating in the Premier League: "I don't know. I'm not involved in that. I've been involved in a few so that's not for me to comment. We are all trying to improve the game, we are all aligned. Things are going to happen, they will happen in the future as well. When it touches you it's very difficult, we have all been there."
When asked about Pep Guardiola's comments on fixture scheduling, Arteta said: "Winning is a big boost of energy. Everybody is ready to play a London derby tomorrow. It is not the moment for us to look at volume of games. We have to feel like we are fresh to perform in the best possible way."
On opponents Chelsea: "They're doing well, I think they're doing much better than people say. They have made huge improvements, they deserve to be in a much higher position in the league. They have reached a final, a semi-final."
On Blues boss and friend Mauricio Pochettino: "It's a huge admiration for Mauricio because I knew him 23 years ago and I wish him all the best. He's an incredible manager, a great leader and will inspire that club to get where they want to get to. What Mauricio is doing is really impressive and I'm sure he will get them there."
On the title race: "You're depending on another two teams - the best two teams in this league, two of the best in the history of this league."
Arsenal v Chelsea: Pick of the statspublished at 11:29 22 April
11:29 22 April
The key facts and figures before Arsenal host Chelsea in the Premier League on Tuesday (20:00 BST)
Arsenal have lost just one of their past eight Premier League games against Chelsea. Their four-match unbeaten run is their longest against the Blues in the league since a 19-game streak between 1995 and 2005.
Chelsea are unbeaten in their past eight Premier League games (W4 D4), scoring at least twice in their past six. They last had a longer run without defeat between January and March 2021 (10).
Arsenal lost 2-0 to Aston Villa in their last home game – they were last beaten in consecutive league games at Emirates Stadium in April 2022.
Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino has never won a Premier League away game against the Gunners, drawing four and losing three of his seven visits to the Emirates in the competition with Southampton and Tottenham.
Since the start of last season, Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka has been involved in more London derby goals in the Premier League than any other player (17 – eight goals, nine assists).
Cole Palmer has scored 20 league goals this season, with 10 coming in his past five appearances. Only three Blues players have scored more in a Premier League campaign – Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink (23 in both 2000-01 and 2001-02), Frank Lampard (22 in 2009-10) and Didier Drogba (29 in 2009-10).
'They needed to respond in the right way and they really did that'published at 10:52 22 April
10:52 22 April
Image source, Getty Images
The Telegraph's Luke Edwards believes Arsenal's 2-0 win at Wolves on Saturday got last weekend's home defeat by Aston Villa "out of their system".
Mikel Arteta's side moved back to the top of the Premier League and put the pressure back on to title rivals Liverpool and Manchester City.
"There's some pretty unfair things that have been said about Arsenal and Mikel Arteta since that difficult defeat by Aston Villa," Edwards told BBC Radio 5 Live's Football Daily podcast.
"Words like 'chokers' and 'bottle-jobs' have been thrown around, but they haven't done that.
"That was their first league defeat of 2024. They needed to respond in the right way and they really did that.
"They controlled the game, got their noses in front just before half-time and then showed their class.
"They have got that Villa defeat out of their system, bounced back, and showed they have the mental strength to deal with a setback like that.
"The good thing for them is now they can put the pressure back on to Manchester City and Liverpool who are now chasing them.
"I was really impressed by them because we all know what a sucker punch that defeat was and everybody talking about it ending their title challenge. To come out like they did and control things like they did was impressive. Their big players showed up.
"They're asking questions of Manchester City and Liverpool and that's all they can do."
