Everton stun Arsenal in Sean Dyche's debut

Everton stuns Premier League leaders Arsenal at Goodison Park, thanks to the new manager Sean Dyche and his impact on the team's performance

Sean Dyche had a dream start as the new manager of Everton as his team delivered a stunning performance against Premier League leaders Arsenal at Goodison Park. 

The hosts recorded their first victory in 11 games, with James Tarkowski scoring the only goal of the match from Dwight McNeil's corner.

Despite the protests against the club's board, there was a transformation on the pitch under Dyche's leadership. 

He asked for "hard work" and a demonstration of "pride" in wearing the Everton shirt and got just that. 

The team showed fight and grit, snapping into tackles and not giving Arsenal any room to breathe.

Arsenal was outfought for large periods and failed to find any rhythm, which resulted in their second league loss of the season. 

The free-flowing football that had taken them to the top of the table was absent, and they could not find the equalizer.

This is a major setback for Arsenal, who could be second by the time they host Manchester City on February 15 if they fail to beat Brentford in their next game.

Everton's Transformation Under Sean Dyche

What a transformation there has been on the pitch for Everton in just five days under the new manager Sean Dyche. 

The former Burnley boss has already set about changing the mindset of a team that has been abject this season. 

The team was set up in a 4-5-1 formation, and they snapped into tackles and gave high-flying Arsenal no room to breathe.

Belgium midfielder Amadou Onana made more tackles - four - than any other player on the pitch, and striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin could have done better with his chances, but he could not find the target. 

Amadou Onana. Steel and style. 😮‍💨 pic.twitter.com/Wuk0LOTlW3

— Everton (@Everton) February 5, 2023

It did not cost them as James Tarkowski scored the only goal of the match, ending a run of four consecutive home defeats with a statement win.

the perfect link-up 🔗😏 pic.twitter.com/3Mvs8Rh9P3

— Everton (@Everton) February 4, 2023

This win takes Everton out of the relegation zone by a point, but they could return to the bottom three depending on other results.

Setback for Arsenal

Arsenal has been sweeping aside almost everyone put in front of them this season, but this is a major setback for Mikel Arteta and his team. 

The free-flowing football that has taken them to the top of the table was absent, and they did not look like scoring after falling behind. 

They could be second by the time they host Manchester City if they fail to beat Brentford in their next game.

Eddie Nketiah wasted a presentable opening, blazing wide, while Bukayo Saka did the same in the second half. 

Deadline-day signing Jorginho came off the bench to make his debut, but he was unable to create any chances for his team-mates.

Arsenal's performances this season have fueled talk of a first league title since 2004, but this result is a setback for their title ambitions.

Stats and Fan Reactions

Mikel Arteta has faced Everton three times at Goodison Park since becoming Arsenal manager.

He's lost all three games. 😳 pic.twitter.com/krehK3SCFz

— Squawka (@Squawka) February 4, 2023

A debut win in the Goodison dugout. 👌

Time to hear from Sean Dyche... #EVEARS pic.twitter.com/8iGjPJs05p

— Everton (@Everton) February 4, 2023

Sean Dyche to Arsenal: pic.twitter.com/CZCyJXvrRZ

— Epl Pidgin (@EplPidgin) February 4, 2023

League leaders Arsenal loses to relegation battling Everton. pic.twitter.com/Q50hDNW8IC

— Troll Football (@TrollFootball) February 4, 2023

This Manchester City comeback to make Arsenal go trophyless after all this hype is actually going to hit like crack in May, I’m going to be there no matter what

— Mod (@CFCMod_) February 4, 2023

People have been waiting for Arsenal football club to lose a Premier league match for over 5 months. Fairs, enjoy your day 🤣

— Sash ~ (@ltarsenal) February 4, 2023