In what turned out to be yet another world-class outing from the Gunners. Mikel Arteta’s men scored 4 past Leeds United in Premier League’s only match of the day. Arsenal looked sharp from the very first minute with the first goal coming from Gabriel Martinelli who just can’t stop scoring. If not for Leeds’ goalkeeper Illan Meslier, Arsenal could have easily scored 3-4 more goals as well. With this win, the Gunners secure a firm position in the race for top 4. As we look at the Arsenal player ratings against Leeds United after Arteta’s men secured 3 points at Elland Road.
Goalkeepers and Defenders:
Aaron Ramsdale – 6/10
Ramsdale barely had anything to do all game except for the penalty he conceded in the second half. It was a dull night for the shot-stopper as he faced only 1 shot on target which he comfortably got hold of.
Takehiro Tomiyasu – 8/10
Another mistake-less outing from Tomiyasu proved why he is among one of the best signings this season. The Japan international was subbed off at the 65th minute due to a minor injury. Arsenal looked very vulnerable after Tomiyasu was subbed off, showing exactly why he is one of the most important players in Mikel Arteta’s side.
Ben White – 6/10
While he kept his calm and cool throughout the game, Ben White put an unnecessary tackle in the latter stages of the second half as he conceded a pointless penalty which further denied Arsenal to keep another clean sheet.
Gabriel – 7/10
Much like other Arsenal defenders, Gabriel did not have too many difficulties keeping the Leeds’ attackers quiet but managed the situation well whenever one arrived.
🔥 Come on @arsenal ! ➕3️⃣ Let’s keep working! 🙌🏾 pic.twitter.com/uvnCZMtjf0
Advertisement— Gabriel Magalhaes (@biel_m04) December 18, 2021
Kieran Tierney – 7/10
Kieran Tierney was whiskers away from scoring after he whooped one in the bottom corner but was eventually saved by Meslier. Apart from that chance, Tierney did well to contain Raphina who was a constant danger for the Arsenal defence.
Midfielders:
Thomas Partey – 7.5/10
Silently working his way amidst the goals. Thomas Partey was all over the pitch for the Gunners as he looks so much more confident on the ball. He has regained his amazing partnership with Granit Xhaka in the heart of the midfield.
Granit Xhaka – 7/10
Granit Xhaka absolutely donned the midfield today, bullying Leeds players, picking up loose balls, and progressing the play forward with the ball at his feet. That being said, he did make a few silly errors which were totally pointless.
Martin Odegaard – 9/10
This team 😍 thanks Martin Ødegaard 🤝😁 pic.twitter.com/yPwvDaqPxP
Advertisement— Emile Smith Rowe (@emilesmithrowe) December 18, 2021
Another brilliant touch of display from Odegaard as he continues to prove how much of a bargain he is turning out. Putting in pinpoint through balls and crosses, Odegaard certainly pulled the strings in the midfield as he got a wonderful assist to his name after he chipped the ball for Smith-Rowe to finish, which he very easily did.
Forwards:
Gabriel Martinelli – 10/10
Gabriel Martinelli right now is the best youngster in the Premier League without a shadow of a doubt. The Brazilian has scored 4 goals in the last 5 games he has played and that is apart from the energy and adrenaline he injects into this Arsenal side. All in all, Gabriel Martinelli is the complete package.
— P™ (@SemperFiArsenal) December 18, 2021
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Alexandre Lacazette – 7.5/10
While he did fail to get his name on the score sheet, Alexandre Lacazette’s link-up and his work rate is absolutely phenomenal. Lacazette did have 3 shots on target, which were all saved by Meslier who denied the Arsenal captain a goal tonight.
Bukayo Saka – 9/10
40 G/A and counting for Bukayo Saka in Arsenal colours. pic.twitter.com/Uk78QvWQx3
Advertisement— Patrick Timmons (@PatrickTimmons1) December 18, 2021
Dropping defenders left and right, Bukayo Saka put in yet another fantastic outing for the Gunners, routine as many say. He was very lively throughout the game as he quickly transitioned the attack forward as he got one goal to his name. As we look at the Arsenal player ratings against Leeds United.
