LONDON: Arsenal's Kai Havertz and Ben White each netted twice as they demolished Chelsea 5-0 on Tuesday, seizing the lead in the Premier League race and intensifying pressure on rivals Liverpool and Manchester City.

Leandro Trossard also found the net in this hi

Although Manchester City holds the destiny of the title in their hands with two games in hand, Arsenal's commanding goal difference advantage now appears insurmountable, potentially proving decisive in the title race.

"We have made our people very proud," said Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta. "It is a big derby for us, and I know what it means."

Chelsea suffered a setback prior to kickoff as key player Cole Palmer was sidelined due to illness, severely impacting their performance.

Despite Chelsea's previous unbeaten streak, they were unable to withstand Arsenal's relentless attack, keen to assert their championship aspirations after a recent loss to Aston Villa.

"We need to be aware we need to compete in a different way," remarked Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino after the disappointing result.

Arsenal dominated from the onset, with Trossard securing an early lead within five minutes. Ben White's brilliant brace, complemented by Havertz's stellar performance, cemented Arsenal's dominance.

This comprehensive victory leaves Chelsea languishing in ninth place, three points away from European qualification.

Arsenal faces a crucial test against Tottenham in the upcoming north London derby, where a win could further solidify their title ambitions.