Arsenal Top League Amid Injury, Transfer Talks

Arsenal moved three points clear at the top of the Premier League after Leandro Trossard’s 1-0 winner at Fulham and are eight matches unbeaten, with Mikel Arteta saying the squad are stronger than 12 months ago. Arteta has urged calm and focus on controllables as the Gunners face a congested schedule, including a Champions League trip to Atletico Madrid and heavy domestic fixtures. Off the pitch, the club is managing transfer and contract matters — including reported Bayern interest in Jurrien Timber — while negotiating renewals and deals for key players such as William Saliba, David Raya, Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard. Captain Martin Odegaard has a knee issue that is a setback as international returns approach. Arteta’s strict handling of conduct issues in the past, notably Matteo Guendouzi’s exit, is credited with improving dressing-room culture, though Joe Hart warns the side lack a player willing to openly challenge the manager in big moments despite their quality.