Arsenal: 4 Things We Learned From Everton Defeat

Arsenal's Spanish manager Mikel Arteta reacts during the English Premier League football match between Everton and Arsenal at Goodison Park in Liverpool, north west England on December 19, 2020. (Photo by Jon Super / POOL / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo by JON SUPER/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
Arsenal's Spanish manager Mikel Arteta reacts during the English Premier League football match between Everton and Arsenal at Goodison Park in Liverpool, north west England on December 19, 2020. (Photo by Jon Super / POOL / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. / (Photo by JON SUPER/POOL/AFP via Getty Images) /
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Dani Ceballos, Arsenal
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 19: Dani Ceballos of Arsenal (Photo by Jon Super – Pool/Getty Images) /

Midfielders Have Had Their Moment

Mohamed Elneny was, rightly, heralded for his superb display at Old Trafford, one unlike any he’s ever put in since being in north London.

Following that he continued to play to a high enough standard that was well beyond his capability, a period that could never be sustained across a whole season. No fan was disillusioned and firmly of the belief that Elneny was the answer to Arsenal’s midfield long-term, but as a backup option he could have at least pulled his weight in the midst of weak recruitment.

That spell of playing half-well is now seemingly up, as it is for Dani Ceballos.

Ceballos’ case differs as his best spell for the club came at the tail-end of last season, none of which has been evident this campaign.

Nothing he does boasts enough quality to have a meaningful impact, from pressing to passing or in terms of attacking contributions. What’s more, his attitude has gone from the fighting spirit we saw last term into a more petulant, hot-headed manner this season.

Could easily, and probably should, have been sent off, too.