Arsenal demonstrated their serious intent to challenge for the Premier League title by comprehensively outplaying a hapless Chelsea side by 3-1 at the Emirates Stadium.
Despite going winless in their previous four league games and suffering a heavy defeat to reigning champions Manchester City in their last outing, the Gunners bounced back in style.
They produced a sensational first-half performance, scoring three goals in the opening 34 minutes through two excellent strikes from captain Martin Odegaard and a scrappy effort from Gabriel Jesus.
Chelsea, who are enduring a miserable run under interim manager Frank Lampard, were indebted to goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga for keeping the scoreline respectable and managed a consolation goal through Noni Madueke.
Nonetheless, Arsenal were always in control of the match and now sits at the top of the Premier League table, two points clear of title rivals Manchester City, albeit having played two more games.