Arsenal secured their first win at Old Trafford since 2006 following a defensive masterclass that saw them clinch a narrow 1-0 victory over Manchester United this evening. The Gunners were by far the better side despite the opposition dominating possession as Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s penalty midway through the second half became the main difference between the two sides.
Arsenal Player Ratings Vs Manchester United
Bernd Leno 6.5/10
Made an important save earlier in the game to deny Mason Greenwood, but was extremely lucky to have the ball hit the bar after it ricocheted off his head, late in the proceedings.
Rob Holding 7.5/10
Rob Holding’s imposing presence at the back was critical in dealing with the threat of Marcus Rashford and company. Picked up a late knock but soldiered on nonetheless
Gabriel Magalhaes 9/10
Gabriel Magalhaes was an absolute rock at the back for Arsenal, especially during the final phase of the game. The Brazilian’s tackles were accurate as he provided some excellent coverage for his goalkeeper. His tackle to deny Nemanja Matic, in particular, was important in denying United a late equaliser.
Kieran Tierney 8.5/10
Kieran Tierney was equally solid at the back, showing excellent communication with his defensive teammates. The Scot also produced one excellent cross, though it was cleared by Harry Maguire.
Hector Bellerin 8/10
Hector Bellerin was resilient as ever, playing in that right-back role. The Spaniard showed impressive discipline but also ventured forward whenever it was necessary, notably creating an excellent cross to Aubameyang, though the striker couldn’t reach it.
Thomas Partey 9/10
It was an absolute masterclass from Thomas Partey in midfield. The Ghanaian international stood there like a rock in the holding midfield role, creating numerous turnovers and blocking any path for the likes of Paul Pogba and Bruno Fernandes to dominate proceedings.
Mohamed Elneny 8.5/10
While Partey stole the show with his impressive resilience and discipline, it was Mohamed Elneny who provided the much-needed support in the double-pivot. May have been lucky late in the game where the ball ricocheted off him to find Leno and then hit the post.
Bukayo Saka 7.5/10
Unlike the Arsenal forwards, Bukayo Saka did try to create chances in the final third and was a vital cog in the counter-attack. Also supported Partey and Elneny in the second line of press.
Willian 6/10
Willian had an attempt on goal that unfortunately hit the post. The Brazilian was not much effective otherwise, as far as penetrating the Manchester United defence was concerned.
Alexandre Lacazette 6/10
Alexandre Lacazette missed an easy opportunity which was set up by Aubameyang in the first half. Didn’t do much to impact the game, aside from playing a key role in the first line of press.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang 7/10
Created an excellent opportunity for Lacazette, but it was pretty much another dire display in the attack, at least in terms of penetration. However, he calmly converted the spot-kick late in the game, scoring Arsenal’s first winning goal at Old Trafford since Emmanuel Adebayor in 2006.
SUBSTITUTES
Eddie Nketiah 6.5/10
Provided some energy and speed in the number nine role after replacing Lacazette during the final phase of the game. Kept the United defenders on their toes.
Ainsley Maitland-Niles N/A
Replaced Willian to provide additional defensive coverage in the Arsenal backline.
Shkodran Mustafi N/A
A late replacement for the tiring Aubameyang.
