Despite Arsenal’s impressive comeback to the top of the Premier League, a 1-0 victory over Manchester United was mostly the result of hard work rather than skill.

Kai Havertz set up Trossard’s game-winning goal in the 20th minute, but the Gunners’ solid defense denied the Red Devils many opportunities both before and after.
And the calm finish that followed always seemed likely to be enough for victory, especially after Casemiro’s most recent moment of vulnerability allowed in-form Havertz to spring the former Brighton winger beyond the home defense.

Here’s how Mikel Arteta’s men fared on an afternoon when they looked great in terms of unity but second gear in terms of elegance.


DAVID RAYA: Six

United saw enough of the ball, so he didn’t have to make many saves, but when he did, his handling was excellent.

Ben White, seven

tried his luck from a close distance and at a narrow angle. had a fantastic fight with Garnacho, who made an attempt but was unable to overcome him.
8 WILLIAM SALIBA

shown his class by making a superb tackle on Garnacho as the Argentine closed in on the goal. An incredibly powerful axis next to Gabriel.
Gabriel – 7

Early header onto the net’s roof and strong defensive play. With the exception of a single, early opportunity lost, Hojlund did not receive any alteration from the Gunner defense.
TOMIYASU TAKEHIRO – 7

Diallo, who is quite animated, put him to the test, but you may be happy with his work. didn’t pose much of a threat going forward, although he played some defensive.


THOS PATRIEY – 6

went to ground in the box, possibly costing Diallo a lot of money. Generally good, but faltered at a potentially crucial point in the second half.
RICE DECLAN – 7

had a shot that appeared to be headed for the bottom corner well blocked and witnessed Onana block another attempt. Contributed to the defense of the back four.


MARTIN ODEGAARD: Six naughty early backheels created an early opportunity. stepped up their game after a quiet first half. When Onana had a glimpse of the goal, he ought to have been tested more.


SAKA BUKAYO – 6

aimed directly at Onana early on, but Dalot mostly held him in check. It’s concerning that Nasty collided with advertising boards after his late-night fall.