Arsenal legend Thierry Henry showered praise on the remarkable £70 million Arsenal hero, emphasizing his crucial role in the team’s attacking dynamics despite not being a designated attacker. This recognition followed one of the most outstanding individual performances of the season. Arsenal, under the management of Mikel Arteta, reclaimed victory with a resounding 5-0 win against Crystal Palace at the Emirates Stadium.
The player ratings reflected a stellar team effort, with David Raya showcasing exceptional shot-stopping abilities and earning a solid 8. Ben White commanded the defensive line with authority, exhibiting versatility and earning an 8. William Saliba displayed maturity under pressure, receiving an 8. Gabriel’s inspiring performance, which included both attacking contributions and rock-solid defending, earned him the Man of the Match with a stellar rating of 9, drawing acclaim from Thierry Henry as a solid defensive force.
Oleksandr Zinchenko consistently provided defensive cover and supported the attack effectively, maintaining a high level of performance, earning a 7. Declan Rice, until his unfortunate hamstring injury, masterfully controlled the midfield, leaving a lasting impact on the game and receiving an 8. Martin Odegaard dictated the game’s tempo and showcased creative prowess, influencing key moments and earning an 8. Kai Havertz had a quieter game, unable to contribute much in the attacking third, receiving a 6.
Bukayo Saka consistently threatened the opposition with moments of brilliance, contributing to the team’s attacking endeavors and earning a 7. Gabriel Jesus, although unfortunate not to score, showcased commendable overall contribution and work rate, receiving an 8. Leandro Trossard displayed consistent performance levels and crowned his display with a well-taken goal, earning a 7.
The substitutes made impactful contributions, with Gabriel Martinelli turning the game with a two-goal performance, earning a 9. Emile Smith Rowe injected energy and creativity into the midfield, making a noticeable difference and earning a 7. Jorginho’s arrival off the bench brought immediate dividends with a pivotal assist, showcasing his influence and earning an 8. Jakub Kiwior and Eddie Nketiah, introduced late in the game, received N/A ratings for limited influence.
