It’s all systems go for the
MICHY BATSHUAYI has taken nearly a year to adjust to the Premier League’s demands – but the £33million striker came out all guns blazing to crush Arsenal.
The Belgium striker scored twice and made another for Willian as Chelsea overwhelmed their London rivals here in the Bird’s Nest Stadium.
It was comfortable for Antonio Conte’s Blues, who looked miles ahead of Arsenal in terms of fitness and sharpness.
Batshuayi, 23, also proved his point following the arrival of £67m striker Alvaro Morata.
His winning goal at West Brom clinched the title in May, but Batshuayi spent much of last season on the bench playing second fiddle to Diego Costa.
Destroying
Morata seems certain to be first choice this time, but it is clear Batshuayi is ready to fight for his place after destroying the Gunners’ defence.
Conte said: “Last season was difficult for Michy, but he scored a very important goal for us which gave us the title at West Brom.
“I think it was a little bit difficult because it’s not easy
Arsenal also struggled to bring on Olivier Giroud (below) at half-time because he was not on the list of substitutes.
The restart was held up as Wenger had a huge row with the officials on the touchline before Giroud was deployed.
Wenger dismissed speculation surrounding Alexis Sanchez – who has yet to return to training after being given an extended break following the Confederations Cup.
Paris Saint- Germain are preparing a mega bid for the Chile striker.
But Wenger, who has insisted that Sanchez will not be sold, said: “It’s only media imagination.”
And when asked whether selling to a foreign club would make it easier if they do decide to cash in, stressed: “It makes no difference at all.”