‘So this is How they will play us on Sunday’: Pep Guardiola laughs at Arsenal Defense despite their winning today, Reveals their WEAK POINT
Aaron Ramsdale: One good stop to deny Wissam Ben Yedder from the edge of the box. Decent distribution. A solid reaction to the questions over his future this week. 6.
Takehiro Tomiyasu:Interestingly chosen on the right instead of the left. Sometimes a little slow to support the attack and not at his best in possession. Did nothing wrong defensively though. 6.
William Saliba: One poorly timed challenge landed the Frenchman in the book and might have found himself sent off in a competitive match for a second foul. 5.
Jakub Kiwior: Solid enough on his first start at his regular left centre half position since his debut against Sporting back in March. Pressed high and decent in transition. 6.
Jurrien Timber: Drifted into midfield a la Zinchenko and looked so comfortable doing it on what is supposed to be his ‘weaker side’. The Dutchman looks a classier signing with each passing appearance. 7
Thomas Partey: Gives Arsenal a bit more control in the midfield. Always an option to receive no matter how much pressure he’s under. Did well in partnership with Rice. 7.
Declan Rice: Moved into the Granit Xhaka role rather than the six this time and looked rally good in it. Got forward down the left to contribute well to the attack. 7.
Emile Smith Rowe: Looks defensively so much more switched on as he continues his mission to get back into the first XI. Decent outing on his first start since May 2022. 6.
Fabio Vieira: Things didn’t quite come off for the Portuguese midfielder who still looks short of confidence despite his goal against Barcelona. 5.
Eddie Nketiah: Came in for plenty of criticism when it emerged pre-match that he would be captain but responded superbly. A well-taken goal was the pinnacle of a decent centre forward display filled with lovely link up play and top movement. 7.
Gabriel Martinelli: Arsenal’s most dangerous attacking threat down the left. His directness caused problems as per usual. Sometimes the final ball still lets him down a touch though. Far too easily beaten for the goal as well. 6.
