The screenplay for Arsenal’s 4-0 win could have been written by manager Mikel Arteta, so flawless was the night, which took place in apocalyptic conditions in north London.

Yes, the weather was not great, but Arsenal’s performance was close to ideal, as they demolished a PSV side that had been unbeaten in 26 games until being completely thrashed here.

It is far too early to speculate on how far Arsenal may advance in the Champions League after just one game, but there is no doubt that this was a tremendous effort.

The only question left for Arteta to answer is one that every manager looks forward to.

Which of his two world-class goalkeepers will start Sunday’s important north London derby against Tottenham? Who got the nod versus PSV: David Raya or Aaron Ramsdale?

Arteta’s apparent delight at the final whistle was brought on by a performance full of last season’s fluidity, exemplified by a sparkling first half that served as a statement of purpose about Arsenal’s ambitions in Europe’s elite tournament this season.

PSV were swept aside in the early stages, with a fit-again Gabriel Jesus demonstrating his quality as well as the attacking focal point he gives when available to Arteta.

When Jesus played Bukayo Saka in after a quick spin away from PSV’s defense, Arsenal had already taken the lead. He passed to Leandro Trossard, who finished with the same poise he had when scoring the winner at Everton on Sunday.

Before halftime, Jesus rightfully drove in a third, and Martin Odegaard’s fourth was a superb finish to a game that had already been won.

Arsenal had such total control that Arteta was able to begin preparations for the north London derby early by resting Saka, Trossard, Jesus, Declan Rice, and Oleksandr Zinchenko.