Arsenal ratings: William Saliba shows what Gunners were missing in last title race but Saka injury is a worry
LEANDRO TROSSARD drilled Arsenal back on top of the Prem – but the 1-0 win at Manchester United was far more about graft than craft.
The Gunners‘ strong defending limited the Red Devils to few chances before and after Kai Havertz teed up Trossard‘s 20th-minute decider.
And when Casemiro‘s latest moment of vulnerability enabled in-form Havertz to spring the ex-Brighton winger beyond the home defence, the resulting calm finish always looked likely to be enough for victory.
Here’s how Mikel Arteta‘s men rated on an afternoon when they appeared in second gear for style but first class for unity.
DAVID RAYA – 6
Not many saves to make despite United seeing enough of the ball – but his handling was good when called upon.
BEN WHITE – 7
Tried his luck from a narrow angle and not too far away. Had a great battle with Garnacho who tried but failed to get the better of him.
WILLIAM SALIBA – 8
Showed his class with a top class tackle on Garnacho when the Argentine was bearing down on goal. Such a strong axis alongside Gabriel.
CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS
GABRIEL – 7
Early header onto roof of the net and defensively solid. Hojlund did not get much change at all out of the Gunners defence apart from one early chance wasted.
TAKEHIRO TOMIYASU – 7
Given a test by the lively Diallo but can be pleased with his efforts. Did not offer much threat going forward but did his bit defensively.
THOMAS PARTEY – 6
Went to ground in the box challenging Diallo and could have been costly Slipped at what could have been a key moment in the second half – but otherwise solid.
DECLAN RICE – 7
Had a shot well blocked when it looked bound for the bottom corner and saw another effort pushed away by Onana. Did his bit to protect the back four.
MARTIN ODEGAARD – 6
cheeky early backheel made an early chance. Came into the game more after quiet first half. Should have tested Onana more when he got a sight of goal.
BUKAYO SAKA – 6
Early shot straight at Onana but was kept largely in check by Dalot. Nasty fall late on saw him collide with advertising boards – which will be a worry.
KAI HAVERTZ – 6
Clever bit of play to keep himself onside and then cross for Trossard to score. Otherwise had little impact against a makeshift United defence.
LEANDRO TROSSARD – 6
Clever run to find space before he tapped in the opener but otherwise fairly quiet. Gave way for Martinelli midway through the second half.
SUBS
Martinelli for Trossard, 66 – Pace asked a few questions. 6
Jesus for Saka, 82 – did not get much of the ball. 5
Kiwior for Partey, 90 – kept it tight. 5
Jorginho for Odegaard, 90 – Calmed things down in closing stages. 6