Premier League football is back, and Arsenal have an awkward first assignment. The champions need a response to their 3-0 defeat at Brighton before the international break. Their visitors, Leeds United, are unbeaten in five league games.
A response needed at the Emirates
Arsenal won their first four league matches before Brighton stopped that run. They return in second place on 12 points, three behind Manchester City. One defeat has not undone their start, but another setback would put a different complexion on it.
The home supporters will want more than simply a return to the usual Saturday routine. This is a chance for Mikel Arteta's side to put the Brighton result behind them before City visit Liverpool on Sunday.
Leeds have earned the right to be confident
Daniel Farke's team arrive fifth on nine points, with two wins and three draws. They have conceded just three league goals. That record makes them a serious test rather than opponents Arsenal can afford to look past.
Leeds' last two league outings showed different sides of their start: a 4-1 win over Newcastle United, followed by a goalless draw with Crystal Palace. Dominic Calvert-Lewin scored twice against Newcastle, giving the visitors an attacking reference point as well as a defensive record to protect.
They also took four points from their first two away league matches, winning 1-0 at Nottingham Forest and drawing 1-1 at Brighton. The Emirates is a different challenge, but Leeds do not arrive needing to discover how to get a result on the road.
What to watch
The central question is whether Arsenal can rediscover the momentum of their opening four wins against a side that has been difficult to beat. Leeds have an unbeaten run worth defending; Arsenal have ground to make up at the top. There is plenty riding on the league's first match back, without treating October as a title decider.
Kick-off and how to follow
Arsenal v Leeds United — Saturday 10 October, 12:30pm BST
Emirates Stadium, London
Premier League
The match is live on TNT Sports in the UK. Leeds also offer live audio commentary through LUTV for subscribers. Follow our fixture schedule and latest results for the rest of the weekend's football.
Sources: Leeds United's official preview and matchday broadcast guide, the Premier League's return guide, and current league fixtures, standings and results. League positions are those before kick-off.