Manchester City fired out a stunning signal of their Premier League title intent with a thrilling 4-2 victory over Arsenal at the City of Manchester Stadium.
After three successive wins in the Premier League, the visit of Arsenal provided Mark Hughes' side with their first serious test of the campaign and it was one they passed with flying colours.
Though Arsenal started brightly, City took the lead on 20 minutes in fortunate circumstances when Micah Richards' header was turned onto the post by Manuel Almunia before bouncing off the visitors' keeper and into the net.
William Gallas, who missed a great chance before City scored, was then denied by Shay Given, who also thwarted Thomas Vermaelen from distance.
Arsenal drew level on 62 minutes through Robin van Persie only for Craig Bellamy to restore City's lead in the 74th minute.
Emmanuel Adebayor maintained his record of scoring in every game since leaving Arsenal for City by heading home on 80 minutes and he was booked after running the length of the pitch in celebration.
Shaun Wright-Phillips grabbed City's fourth goal on 84 minutes before Tomas Rosicky marked his first Arsenal appearance since January 2008 with a late consolation.