“Either they sell him or sack me…I can’t coach a player who severally go against my command”: Mikel Arteta is not satisfied with ONE particular Arsenal player’s performance against Atalanta as he order for his sale instantly
Arsenal kicked off their Champions League campaign by drawing with Atalanta in Italy.
The Gunners had David Raya to thank for securing a 0-0 draw, with the goalkeeper making a stunning double save early in the second-half.
Raya saved Mateo Retegui’s penalty and then showed remarkable reflexes to keep out the follow-up header, too.
Neither side was able to find the back of the net and it finished goalless, with Arsenal next in action at Manchester City on Sunday.
Here is how Standard Sport rated the Arsenal players…
David Raya 9 | Star player
Arsenal’s hero. Made a stunning double save, first keeping out Retegui’s penalty and then the follow-up header. Incredible goalkeeping.
Ben White 7
A solid performance from the right-back. Kept Ademola Lookman quiet and didn’t really put a foot wrong.
William Saliba 7
Had a good battle with Retegui, who caused him a few problems. Came out on top on the night and made good tackle late on to deny Lookman.
Gabriel 7
No heroics, like on Sunday at Spurs, but another strong performance from the Brazilian. Helped Arsenal keep a clean sheet by being so dominant in the air.
Jurrien Timber 6
Proved his fitness by starting for the second time in four days. Another good performance and seems like the first-choice left-back.
Kai Havertz 5
Moved back into midfield and asked to play in Martin Odegaard’s role. Could not get into the game and influence it like he does when up top.
Thomas Partey 4
Gave away a penalty for a clumsy tackle. Struggled to really boss the game and hooked before the hour mark.
Declan Rice 6
Back in the side after serving his suspension during the north London derby. Defensively solid, but quiet going forward.
Bukayo Saka 6
Arsenal’s brightest attacker on a lacklustre night going forward. Went close with a free-kick in the first-half that was well saved.
Gabriel Jesus 5
Captain for the night, but never really got into the game. Looked a little rusty and still working his way back to full fitness.
Gabriel Martinelli 5
Missed a great chance late on when played in by Raheem Sterling. Continues to work tirelessly off the ball, but lacking an end product right now.
