"The new players were really impressive today," Arteta said after the victory at Emirates Stadium on 13/9. "You can feel the new connections are forming, making us more unpredictable. We used a completely new front three. The match was a perfect opportunity for them to show themselves and gain experience."

Viktor Gyokeres (left) celebrates with Noni Madueke during Arsenal's 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest in the fourth round of the Premier League at Emirates Stadium, London, England on 13/9. Photo: Arsenal FC

Viktor Gyokeres (left) celebrates with Noni Madueke during Arsenal's 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest in the fourth round of the Premier League at Emirates Stadium, London, England on 13/9. Photo: Arsenal FC

During the summer transfer window of 2025, Arsenal spent over 300 million USD to bring in eight new players. Five of them started against Nottingham Forest, and all performed well. Martin Zubimendi scored twice, Viktor Gyokeres scored once, Eberechi Eze provided an assist, Noni Madueke continually threatened Nottingham Forest's right flank, while center-back Cristhian Mosquera played with maturity.

Arteta praised his fellow Spaniard Zubimendi, who scored his first brace after 240 club matches (236 for Real Sociedad and 4 for Arsenal). "Those two goals weren't easy at all," the Spanish manager said. "Zubimendi's calmness and tactical understanding help the team operate more smoothly. Now he's scoring too, which is a trajectory we want to maintain."

Mosquera, the center-back recruited for 17 million USD from Valencia, made a surprise start in place of William Saliba. He won both of his tackles, made six successful recoveries, and was not penalized.

Arteta praised Mosquera's adaptability, recalling the Spanish defender's solid performance when he came on against Liverpool. "It's not easy to adapt immediately to the Premier League, but Mosquera is a great example. Today he played excellently again," the 43-year-old manager said with satisfaction.

Cristhian Mosquera (right) shakes hands with Jurrien Timber after a defensive play. Photo: Arsenal FC

Cristhian Mosquera (right) shakes hands with Jurrien Timber after a defensive play. Photo: Arsenal FC

According to Arteta, the active transfer window has helped Arsenal withstand personnel difficulties, with Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, Saliba, Gabriel Jesus, Christian Norgaard, and most recently Martin Odegaard all injured.

"If we hadn't done that, with these unavoidable injuries, we would be in a very different situation," he said. "Other teams in the Premier League and Europe have set very high standards. Now we have more options, the ability to rotate, change the game, and importantly, make all the players feel connected and given opportunities."

On 16/9, Arteta's team will travel to Spain to face Bilbao in the first round of the 2025-2026 Champions League.

Compiled by Hong Duy