Arsenal Player Ratings: Saliba Shines with an Outstanding Defensive Performance, While Martinelli Struggles to Impress Under the Spotlight
Set pieces dominated as Arsenal emerged victorious with a 2-0 win against Manchester United.
The first half ended without goals, leading to concerns that Mikel Arteta‘s team might falter in their title pursuit.
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However, Jurrien Timber’s goal at the 54-minute mark diminished those worries as he headed in from a set piece.
Timber deftly made his way to the front post, capitalizing on a delivery that eluded Bruno Fernandes and Rasmus Hojlund.
United failed to adjust, allowing William Saliba to extend the lead, scoring after Thomas Partey headed the ball back across the goal, resulting in Saliba finishing the move with a cheeky touch.
Here’s how SunSport’s Jordan Davies rated the Gunners.
DAVID RAYA – 7/10
Had a notably subpar game with his footwork, misdirecting clearances that are normally precise.
However, he redeemed himself with an outstanding fingertip save to deny De Ligt’s looping header.
OLEKSANDR ZINCHENKO – 7
Showed why he is an essential squad member with a solid and determined defensive performance after coming in from the sidelines.
The only mistake was a lapse in concentration that led to a foul on Amad, resulting in a needless yellow card.
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WILLIAM SALIBA – 9
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Although he seemed to miss his defensive partner, he was unfazed and remained composed under pressure, making effective runs up the pitch.
His luck was rewarded with a goal to make it 2-0, as Partey’s header from a corner deflected off him.
JAKUB KIWIOR – 8
Faced challenges physically against Hojlund during goal kicks and long balls, occasionally allowing the ball to bounce instead of contesting it aerially as Gabriel would.
Nevertheless, he improved as the match progressed, making significant defensive contributions, even receiving acknowledgment from Saliba.
JURRIEN TIMBER – 8
His connection with Saka down the right side wasn’t as fluid as in past weeks, but he displayed bravery in winning the header that led to the opening goal in the second half.
He shifted to left-back later in the game, demonstrating his versatility and value to Arteta and Arsenal.
THOMAS PARTEY – 7
Missed an easy opportunity from a near-post corner early on and found himself giving away possession frequently due to errant passes throughout the match.
He transitioned to right-back with 20 minutes to go and assisted Saliba’s goal with another header.
DECLAN RICE – 7
Initially struggled to make an impact but turned it around after halftime, providing the whipped corner that led to Timber’s goal.
MARTIN ODEGAARD – 7
Served as a leader, although lacking the flair in this match. His pressing and overall work rate were crucial.
GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 6
Missed a good chance from close range after United’s defense faltered. He contributed defensively in the second half to support Zinchenko against Amad.
BUKAYO SAKA – 7
Constantly pressured Malacia with his runs, proving to be a continual threat and contributing to Saliba’s goal with a well-placed corner.
KAI HAVERTZ – 6
Had a quiet outing overall, due in part to lack of service, although he pressed well and fought against De Ligt and Maguire. Failed to convert a golden opportunity late in the game.
SUBS:
MIKEL MERINO (ZINCHENKO, 70) – 7
Came in and nearly scored from a corner, leaving everyone surprised when he missed the bottom corner.
LEANDRO TROSSARD (MARTINELLI, 70) – 6
His introduction added energy on the left side, leading to a few potential opportunities.