Arsenal entertained Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium earlier today as they looked to secure all three points at home. The Gunners made a quick start to the game and got their noses ahead in the third minute courtesy of Nuno Tavares’ finish from close range. Bukayo Saka doubled Arsenal’s advantage from the penalty spot in the 32nd minute. However, Cristiano Ronaldo pulled a goal back for the Red Devils with a calm finish just two minutes later. Mikel Arteta’s men went into the half-time break 2-1 up on the scoreline.
The home side kept a solid shape in the second half and managed to extend their lead in the 70th minute when Granit Xhaka scored with a great strike from long range. The contest ended with Arsenal earning a 3-1 win in front of their home supporters.
Let’s take a look at how each Arsenal player performed during the match against the Red Devils.
GK: Aaron Ramsdale – 7/10
The English keeper made a few solid saves during the game and did well to restrict the opposition from scoring more than once.
RB: Cedric Soares – 7/10
He earned the ball back a couple of times and made two encouraging runs with the ball going forward.
CB: Ben White – 6.5/10
The English defender made some important defensive contributions at the back and was tidy with his passing.
CB: Gabriel – 7/10
The Brazilian centre-back cleared the danger when needed and won one crucial challenge in the air.
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LB: Nuno Tavares – 7/10
He looked defensively vulnerable for most of the game but deserves credit for scoring an early goal.
CM: Mohamed Elneny – 7/10
Elneny added some bite and steel to Mikel Arteta’s midfield and had a few lively moments in the Man United half.
CM: Granit Xhaka – 8/10
Xhaka anchored the midfield well and scored a superb goal from long range to ensure maximum points for his team.
RW: Bukayo Saka – 7.5/10
He was a constant menace in the final third and got his name on the scoresheet via the penalty spot in the 32nd minute.
CAM: Martin Odegaard – 7/10
The Norwegian talent caused a few problems for the opposition but didn’t do enough to register a goal.
LW: Emile Smith Rowe – 6/10
Smith Rowe struggled to get a foothold in the game and could only last 63 minutes before he was substituted.
ST: Eddie Nketiah – 7/10
He caused a few problems for the opposition centre-backs using his pace but lacked conviction in the final third.
Substitutes:
LW: Gabriel Martinelli – 6/10
Martinelli offered very little after coming off the bench.
CB: Rob Holding – 6.5/10
Holding made a few essential clearances at the back.
RB: Takehiro Tomiyasu – N/A
He hardly had any time to influence the game.
