‘He is carrying Arsenal on His back now,He deserves the Man of the Match Away’: Martin Ødegaard praises One Arsenal player for His outstanding performance tonight against Sevilla
David Raya: We saw the good and the bad of David Raya tonight. Those errors playing from the back that have caused such consternation in the past few weeks were present and nearly created a good chance for Lukebakio. At the same time some his passing was sublime, while his coming for crosses was beyond reproach. 6.
Ben White: Dealt well with the exact hospital pass that proved so costly against Lens. Ocampos was probably Sevilla’s biggest threat down the left and he kept him largely quiet on the night. 7.
William Saliba: Dealt well with the physical threat of En-Nesyri. Given a lot more to do as Sevilla went two up top with Diaz and stayed focus to help secure a good result. 7.
Gabriel: Enjoyed the physical battle that Sevilla’s two big centre forwards offered. Seemed to grow in stature as the game became more pressurised and led his teammates through a tricky period. 7.
Takehiro Tomiyasu: An impressive display from the Japan international on his first start since the Lens defeat. Defensively solid as ever, but added a threat going forward that he’s not always associated with. 8.
Jorginho: Kept possession ticking over well at the base of the midfield in the first half. Showed his defensive chops in the second when Arsenal had to drop deeper. 6.
Declan Rice: After a quieter first half he really grew into the game in the second period. One lung-busting run through the heart of the Sevilla team deserved better than Saka being offside for his pass. Looked absolutely shattered by the end. 7.
Martin Odegaard: Another quiet night for the Norwegian who struggled to really get into the game. When he did his shooting lacked conviction and it wasn’t a huge surprise to see him taken off with 20 minutes to go. 5.
Bukayo Saka: Given a couple of decent opportunities on the edge of the box, but his touch on both occasions was poor. His decision making is usually so good, but tonight it was off. 5.
Gabriel Jesus: Something about this competition just bring out the very best in the Brazilian. He is now three from three this season. His goal was a thing of beauty, but it’s his assist for Martinelli’s opener that will live long in the memory. Lost his man for Gudelj’s goal, but after winning the game he will be forgiven. 9.
Gabriel Martinelli: After missing a big opportunity in the early stages he kept his composure to finish well after Jesus’ excellent Cruyff turn. Improved in the second half after that. A good Champions League debut. 7.
SUBSTITUTES –
Kai Havertz: Didn’t see the ball often after coming on, but used it sensibly when he did. As Arsenal found themselves under pressure this was a welcome relief. 6.
Eddie Nketiah: Came on too late to influence the game. n/a.
Leandro Trossard: Came on too late to influence the game. n/a.
Jakub Kiwor: Came on too late to influence the game. n/a.
