Arsenal 2-1 Leeds United: Bruno Guimarães seals comeback as Arteta demands higher standards

Arsenal came from behind to beat Leeds United 2-1 at the Emirates Stadium, with substitute Bruno Guimarães scoring the winner to keep the Premier League champions level on points with Manchester City.

James Justin had given Leeds a surprise lead before Riccardo Calafiori equalised and Guimarães completed the turnaround.

Despite securing three points, Mikel Arteta admitted his side must improve after an unconvincing performance.

Arsenal dominated possession during a frustrating first half but struggled to create clear chances against Daniel Farke's disciplined five-man defence.

Kai Havertz saw an early header saved by James Trafford, while David Raya denied Gabriel Gudmundsson shortly before half-time.

Leeds emerged with greater attacking intent after the break, with Raya tipping Ao Tanaka's effort over the crossbar.

The visitors took the lead in the 54th minute when Gudmundsson's low cross evaded Raya and Justin fired into the net.

Arsenal responded eight minutes later. Noni Madueke found Ben White at the far post, and his header across goal allowed Calafiori to force home the equaliser.

Arteta introduced Guimarães and Viktor Gyökeres as Arsenal searched for greater attacking urgency.

The changes paid off in the 70th minute when Martin Ødegaard and Declan Rice combined to release Guimarães, who finished low past Trafford.

Arsenal protected their advantage to secure a victory that moved them level with Manchester City, although the champions have played one match more.

“We knew it was going to be really tough,” Arteta said afterwards.

The manager praised his players' response but acknowledged the need for improvement.

“It’s all about raising the standards,” he added.

With Champions League and Premier League fixtures approaching, Arteta will want a more convincing display from his side.

Arsenal host Lille in the Champions League on Tuesday before facing Nottingham Forest in the Premier League on Sunday. Arteta will look for greater attacking precision as his side navigate a demanding run of fixtures.