Arsenal Vs Chelsea: 5 things we learned – Welcome to Wembley

1. Nacho Monreal embodies character and composure

Nacho Monreal is an oft-overlooked member of the Arsenal team. He is quiet, humble, unassuming. He is also loyal, dependable, and hard working. He is committed fully to the team, he is experienced and intelligent, he leads by example, not necessarily by shouting. And against Chelsea, he embodied Arsenal’s character and composure.

He attempted nine tackles, which is more than any other Arsenal player, winning three of them, he made four clearances, a figure bettered by only Shkodran Mustafi, he made four interceptions, more than all his teammates, and made the most blocks also, with an astonishing six. He also played a major part in the equalising goal, with his desire to meet the ball and power the header towards the goal vital.

More than just commitment, though, Monreal also provided moments of calm in the second half as Arsenal protected their lead. He completed 91% of his passes, the third best in the team. He had 90 touches of the ball, the second best in the team. He was never dispossessed.

Next: Arsenal Vs Chelsea: Player ratings

This was a vintage Monreal and Arsenal performance. Not vintage in its quality, but vintage in its character and its produce. No one will remember the quality. Everyone will remember the victory. That is all that matters, and no one knew it more than Monreal.