Gabriel scores on debut as Arsenal beat Fulham in season opener

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta celebrates with Gabriel after the match. Photograph: Paul Childs/Reuters

Debutants Gabriel and Willian impressed as Arsenal blew away promoted Fulham in the opening game of the Premier League season.

Former Chelsea winger Willian had a hand in all three goals and Gabriel - a £23m signing from Lille - scored in his first game in English football.

Arsenal were highly impressive, while Fulham caused themselves too many problems at the back.

Both sides have played and won at Wembley - twice for the Gunners - in the 48 days since the last Premier League season finished.

Alexandre Lacazette scored the opener from close range after Willian's effort was saved.

Centre-back Gabriel then scored from Willian's corner with his shoulder. Willian, who also hit a post from a free-kick, picked out Pierre-Emerick Aubamayeng with a perfect cross-field ball and the captain curled home Arsenal's third.

Fulham created few chances, with last season's top scorer Aleksandar Mitrovic coming on with only 27 minutes to go and forcing Bernd Leno into a save.

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