Arsenal's search for a guiding light has not taken long, however. This measured, robust drubbing of a supposed Champions League contender crystallized a sense that has been building for a while around north London. For the time being at least, Arsenal are a team in Kai Havertz's image.

Foden doubled City's lead with his first goal of the season in the 15th, latching onto a pass from Jeremy Doku and curling a strike into the bottom corner. Haaland netted his 42nd goal in Europe's top competition in the 58th minute, sprinting onto Rico Lewis's pass then stepping around keeper Dominik Takac before slotting into the empty net.

Kai Havertz continued his impressive form as Arsenal secured a crucial 2-0 victory over Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in their Champions League group stage clash at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday.