Premier League - Arsenal vs West Brom Player Ratings

It was a game of missed chances, but in this particular fixture, Arsenal came out on top.

Mikel Arteta – 8

Good game plan, good line-up, good substitutions. Started Martinelli (hallelujah) and returned Saka to LB. Solid from Mikel.

Bernd Leno – 7.5

Had a solid game where he demanded his box and his defence. Couldn’t really do much about the goal, but overall put in a solid performance between the sticks.

Callum Chambers – 7

One of the quieter matches he has had, as not much play went down his side. In spite of this, he did well when he had the chance and was efficient in possession whilst also adding a threat on the offensive end when possible.

Rob Holding – 7

A solid outing from Holding. Did well defensively and was efficient in possession, demanding the best out of himself and the rest of the defence. An improvement from his recent performances.

Gabriel – 7

Did well defensively apart from on the goal. Gave Matheus Pereira too much room to work with instead of stepping up and pressing him. Found himself in a possible damned if you do, damned if you don’t situation. I’m not saying he is fully responsible, he just seemed passive. Other than that he played well.

Bukayo Saka – 9

The fact he didn’t get more assists is confusing to me, however, he completely terrorised West Brom from left back. Even though he brings a lot to the attack, I wouldn’t oppose the idea of him returning to LB in the absence of Kieran Tierney.

Saka @ LB = Liquid.

Dani Ceballos – 6.5

Had a good game in terms of effort. At times he was highly efficient in possession, especially going forward, but had spells where he was poor. Would have liked to see something more from him in his attempt to chase down Pereira which lead to the goal.

Mohammed Elneny – 7

Also didn’t have the biggest game, but put in a good, all-round shift. He did well and played his role in defence whilst also pushing the ball up the pitch and exploring attacking capabilities.

Nicolas Pepe – 8.5

What. A. Hit.

It has been known for a while that Pepe’s left foot is a lethal weapon. He proved it today. If this man can find a run in form and pair it with consistent minutes on the pitch, there are few I would rather have on the wing.

Emile Smith-Rowe – 8

Did well to finish off Saka’s cross, displaying prolific technique. Other than that, he did well to orchestrate the attack and pull the strings, whilst also doing the simple things well, such as dropping short and in between the lines to receive the ball. Felt as if he could’ve bagged one or two more off Saka’s crosses.

Willian – 8.5

They talk about Ronaldo vs Portsmouth.

They talk about Beckham vs Greece.

They talk about Carlos vs France.

They even talk about Rashford vs Chelsea.

But now, they will talk about Willian vs West Brom.

Immaculate strike. On a more serious note, I thought he did brilliantly in supporting Saka’s attacking endeavours. Played his role really well and, in my opinion at least, has earned himself more minutes.

Gabriel Martinelli – 7

HE STARTED.

Other than this surprise, there was not much more from Martinelli – in this appearance anyway. Was a bit quiet for the 60 minutes he was on the pitch. I fear as if Arteta will judge him too quickly, like he did with Saliba and Guendouzi. One thing is for sure.

On the rare occasion he is given minutes, he NEEDS to make them count.

SUBSTITUTIONS:

Alexandre Lacazette – 6.5

Did well to solidify the attack for the time he was on. Didn’t offer much else.

Kieran Tierney – 6.5

Good to see him get minutes back into his legs and show glimpses off his attacking ability.

Thomas Partey – 6.5

Solidified the midfield. No long shots today (yay).

MAN OF THE MATCH:

Bukayo Saka – 9

Saka @ LB = liquid.

What more needs to be said.