BUKAYO SAKA appeared to brush off the West Ham fans after netting a goal in Arsenal’s commanding 5-2 win at the London Stadium.
Mikel Arteta’s squad outplayed the Hammers on Saturday, scoring all five goals in the first half.
Arsenal surged ahead with four unanswered goals before West Ham finally found the net with two goals of their own.
Nonetheless, Saka’s penalty, awarded just before halftime, squashed West Ham’s hopes of a comeback.
This penalty was crucial to the match as Julen Lopetegui’s team fought hard after witnessing a rapid brace from full-backs Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Emerson Palmieri.
Having already assisted on two goals, Saka was designated to take the penalty after captain Martin Odegaard expertly converted an earlier opportunity.
In the charged atmosphere, England’s young star clinched his seventh goal of the season.
Saka’s goal quieted the home fans, who were anticipating an upset.
Indeed, video footage captured Saka seemingly sharing a laugh with West Ham supporters during his celebration.
He even gestured for silence, placing a finger to his lips.
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His other hand mimicked a mouth in motion.
And Arsenal fans relished this bolder side of Saka’s persona.
One user commented: “I love this new villain arc.”
Another added: “You can really hear the laugh.”
Someone remarked: “He’s truly a villain now.”
Another stated: “My star boy has turned ruthless, and I’m all for it.”
Arsenal ratings vs West Ham
WEST HAM and Arsenal showcased one of the most thrilling London derbies recently, featuring SEVEN goals in the first half alone.
The Gunners raced to a 4-0 lead within the first 35 minutes, only for the Hammers to quickly retaliate with two goals, including a stunning free-kick from Emerson.
Bukayo Saka’s penalty just before halftime secured a 5-2 scoreline, marking only the fourth time in Premier League history that seven goals were scored before the break.
The second half was quieter, with Mikel Arteta making substitutions, especially considering the upcoming match against Man Utd at the Emirates.
This win propelled the Gunners to second place in the Premier League, trailing Liverpool by six points ahead of Sunday’s key clash between the leaders and a struggling Man City.
Find out how SunSport’s Charlie Pittock rated the Gunners players.