Newcastle United suffered a fourth successive defeat as Steve Bruce's promise of a response from his players fell flat.
Bruce made eight changes and switched the system as he went looking for a change in fortunes after last week's risible defeat at Sheffield United.
But after a more disciplined first half they fell apart at the back in the second period - and once again created very little to threaten the Gunners.
Pierre Emerick Aubameyang hit two and Bukayo Saka rolled home to consign Newcastle to another away defeat - and they've failed to score in six of their last seven games.
The defeat piles the pressure further on Bruce. Here are Lee Ryder's player ratings.
Karl Darlow 7
Kept the score down as Arsenal rattled in 20 goal attempts.
Emil Krafth 3
Often the last man as Arsenal countered but didn't cover himself in glory.
Jamaal Lascelles 3
Fitness may be an issue after Covid but stood off too many times and then lost his cool towards the end when the game was gone.
Ciaran Clark 6
One of the few to emerge with any credit.
Jamal Lewis 4
Never looked confident.
Matty Longstaff 5
A solid enough first half but lost his way after the break.
Jonjo Shelvey 2
Went missing. Poor deliveries not only failed to cause a threat in opponents area but handed Arsenal key opening goal.
Miguel Almiron 6
Battled hard and at least looked a threat in the first half.
Joelinton 3
Not effective and looks in dire need of a coach who understands him.
Callum Wilson 5
One tame header all night but like Carroll had no service. It's baffling how United are doing this to him.
Andy Carroll 6
Gave it a shot. Didn't get great service but at least looked like he was bothered enough to get upset. For all that, not the answer.
Subs
Jacob Murphy 4 (for Carroll 68)
No impact.
Jeff Hendrick (for Longstaff 77)
A questionable signing.
Elliot Anderson (for Almiron)
Made his Premier League debut but shouldn't be tarred with the same brush as his team-mates.
