Arsenal were unable to get one over Jose Mourinho at the Emirates today, in a match where it was unsurprising to see the Blues defend for their lives. However they did get forward at some points- only to be prevented by the outstanding Francis Coquelin.
Coquelin has been a stand-out performer this calendar year and he showed his class once again against the league leaders- which proved he can do it against the best, after he had done similar against Manchester City and Liverpool.
Calm on the ball, Coquelin was successful in 92% of his passes as he provided the bridge between defence and attack. He picked up on loose balls, flew into tackles- and almost broke Eden Hazard, which is always a bonus.
A 67% success rate in aerial duels is also a decent return, whilst he mad five interceptions throughout the game. Three fouls is standard for the position he plays in and he was unfortunate to pick up a booking, after Hazard went to ground easily.
Compared to his opposite number Nemanja Matic- who is considered to be the best in the league in defensive midfield, Coquelin came out on top- with a better passing percentage, a better tackle success rate, more interceptions and more blocks.
Coquelin will be key to Arsenal in the remaining games of the season and heading into next year’s campaign.