Arsenal maintained their title hopes with a 2-0 victory over Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium, in a match that was as wet and gloomy as the weather itself. Despite not being the most exciting performance, Arsenal’s solid play ensured they earned the three points with goals from Jurrien Timber and William Saliba, both from corner kicks.
The result highlights the challenge ahead for Manchester United under new manager Ruben Amorim, who will have learned a lot from this defeat about the scale of the rebuilding job required. Arsenal were the better team on the night, and their performance was key to the win.
Arsenal Player Ratings:
- David Raya (7/10): The goalkeeper received a standing ovation from the home crowd after making a brilliant save to deny Matthijs De Ligt. He was confident with the ball at his feet and was reliable in goal.
- Jurrien Timber (7/10): Timber, not primarily known for his aerial prowess, found himself in the right place to score his first goal for Arsenal. His dynamic, versatile play in defense and attack was crucial.
- William Saliba (8/10): Saliba was Arsenal’s standout performer, especially in the first half. He was a force defensively, winning duels and stopping United’s counter-attacks, and later scored a goal from a corner in the second half.
- Jakub Kiwior (8/10): Filling in for the injured Gabriel, Kiwior impressed with his strong, physical presence in defense. Together with Saliba, they nullified United’s attack.
- Oleksandr Zinchenko (6/10): Zinchenko had a mixed performance. While he controlled the game with his passing and composure, he was booked in the second half for losing track of Amad Diallo. He was substituted for Mikel Merino.
- Martin Ødegaard (7/10): Ødegaard had a tough first half as United successfully closed him down. However, he grew into the game as it progressed and began to influence proceedings, linking play and setting up attacks.
- Thomas Partey (6/10): Partey also struggled initially but found his rhythm in the second half. He was moved to right-back after the break, where he performed solidly in a defensive role.
- Declan Rice (8/10): Rice was one of the standout performers after the break, driving Arsenal forward with energy and power. He came close to scoring and was key in creating Timber’s goal. His presence in midfield caused United significant problems.
- Bukayo Saka (7/10): Saka was a constant threat in the second half, though he will be disappointed with his missed chance from an excellent pass by Ødegaard. His set-piece delivery was excellent and led to the goals.
- Kai Havertz (6/10): Havertz had a tough night, struggling to link up with Ødegaard and Saka as he was often isolated against United’s three center-backs. Nonetheless, he kept working hard, though his impact was limited.
- Gabriel Martinelli (5/10): Martinelli found it difficult to make an impact, as United’s defense doubled up on him throughout the match. When he had space, he was unable to capitalize on it. He was substituted for Leandro Trossard, who looked more dangerous.
In contrast, Manchester United struggled to get going in the game. Their attack was blunt, and their midfield was overwhelmed by the strength and control of Arsenal’s players, particularly Rice and Saliba. The match was a significant test for United, and Amorim will need to address multiple areas to improve the squad’s performance moving forward.