Thursday, April 18, 2024

Player Ratings: Arsenal 4-2 Leeds

Bernd Leno – 8

Could do nothing about the two goals where his defence gave him little protection. Was really good with his feet against the high press of Leeds – confidently came for crosses to ease the second-half pressure.

Hector Bellerin – 7

Got forward well in the first half and was rewarded with a goal, but failed to track his man which allowed Leeds a straightforward second goal in the second half – something which encouraged Leeds to fight back in the second half. Going forward was better, defensively, was poor again.

David Luiz – 7

Lost a header for Leeds goal but helped drive Arsenal forward several times. His passing range made him a useful asset to beat the Leeds press.

Gabriel Magalhaes – 8

 Gabriel looked shaky when he came back into the team post Covid in January, but the Brazilian has had two games back to back now where he has looked Arsenal’s best defender, comfortably. It was another solid afternoon from him – remaining calm when it looked like Arsenal may throw it all away.

Cedric Soares – 6

Dani Ceballos – 7

Granit Xhaka – 6

Bukayo Saka – 8

 Saka is becoming one of the best wide players in the league, and he’s still a teenager. The youngster was unlucky not to win two penalties and played his part in most of the goals, despite not picking up a direct goal or assist. 

Martin Odegaard – 7

Made useful contributions, was lively and good in possession. Lacked some sharpness with his final ball and shooting – understandable given the lack of football he’s had this season. 

Emile Smith Rowe – 8

Starting from the left today, Smith Rowe was influential again for Arsenal. Whether or not he meant the assist for Aubameyang’s hattrick goal, he got it. Driving into the box and putting the ball into a dangerous area is what he does best and he did it again.

Striker: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang – 10

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This morning we predicted Aubameyang would line up through the middle and he did so in style. He had been off form so far this season, struggling to net Premier League goals but today he managed a very impressive hat trick, his first ever in the Premier League. He also showed good pedigree to press and be lively throughout.

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