Arsenal player ratings vs Everton: Leno howler gifts defeat

After a scandalous few days off the pitch, Arsenal returned to competitive Premier League action with a 1-0 defeat against Everton.

In the hours before the game, thousands gathered outside the Emirates Stadium to protest Stan Kroenke’s ownership. Flares and signs were abundant, and the chants impassioned. One thing is for certain, they made their voices heard.

Neither side created any serious chances in the game opening 30 minutes. Bukayo Saka’s snapshot failed to trouble Jordan Pickford, but Everton soon gave Bernd Leno a scare.

Allan played a nice pass into Richarlison, who swam inside Pablo Marí before forcing a sharp save from the goalkeeper. The crossbar prevented Gylfi Sigurðsson from scoring another free-kick against Arsenal just before the break.

Arsenal player ratings vs Everton as Bernd Leno gifts visitors 1-0 win.

Sigurðsson nearly got his goal moments into the second half, however, Rob Holding made a crucial block.

Minutes later, Dani Ceballos went down in the area under the slightest contact. VAR confirmed the foul but brought play back to a tight offside call in the buildup.

Arsenal began to show a little more authority. Calum Chambers soon missed an excellent chance to give them the lead, Ceballos then had a long-distance effort palmed away.

However, it was Everton who took a late lead. Richarlison skated past Granit Xhaka, and his tame cross somehow trickled through Leno’s legs. It proved to be the winning goal.

Goalkeeper & Defenders

Bernd Leno (GK) – 4.0/10 – Made some sharp saves in the first half; one from a deflected cross and another from a stinging Richarlison effort. He then gifted Everton their winner.

Calum Chambers (RB) – 6.5/10 – Started the game with a lovely cross and was otherwise very solid. Should have done better with his volley, but has certainly distanced himself from Cédric Soares and Héctor Bellerín.

Rob Holding (CB) – 6.5/10 – Tonight’s captain shadowed the returning Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who proved to be a worthy opponent. Dealt well with a dangerous Sigurdsson free-kick early, and for the most part, won the battle against Everton’s dangerous striker.

Pablo Marí (CB) – 6.5/10 – Like his partner, Marí had to deal with a very capable and physical opponent. After Gabriel’s struggles against Fulham, do not be surprised to see Marí against Villarreal on Thursday. There is a calmness to his play, both offensively and defensively.

Granit Xhaka (LB) – 7/10 – Looks very comfortable at left-back, especially with the extra time he is afforded in possession. Had a couple of bad moments in the second half, but recovered nicely.

Midfielders

Thomas Partey (CM) – 5/10 – Partey can thrive in this shape. The space he is afforded allows him to fully utilise his physical gifts and technical skills. Nonetheless, he was far from his best tonight. Too many sloppy passes, especially in the first half.

Dani Ceballos (CM) – 7/10 – Ventured into advanced positions on a couple of occasions early in the game. Lacks the quickness often required in that part of the pitch. Another silky display for the most part.

Emile Smith Rowe (AM) – 6/10 – A smooth operator, who links play so well, Smith Rowe also deserves praise for his intellect, sharpness, and industry. Nonetheless, it was a difficult game for the youngster, who failed to make a meaningful contribution.

Forwards

Bukayo Saka (RW) – 6/10 – Certainly not Saka’s best performance. Lucas Digne marked him tightly throughout and nothing really worked for him.

Eddie Nketiah (ST) – 7/10 (MOTM) – Nketiah was under pressure tonight. He needed to show that he was more than just a poacher and that he could contribute to the wider game. He succeeded in doing so. His movement and his pressing was very good, even without any service.

Nicolas Pépé (LW) – 6.5/10 – His performances have been more rounded and consistent recently, and the Ivorian was a constant threat during his time on the pitch. Lively and willing, he fired an inviting cross across the Everton box before being surprisingly withdrawn.

Substitutes

Martin Ødegaard – N/A – Didn’t have an impact on the game after his return from injury.

 Gabriel Martinelli – N/A – Came on to play as a striker. Hopefully, we get to see more of him in this position. Had a late chance saved from Jordan Pickford.

 Willian – N/A – Came on after Arsenal conceded. Could do nothing to change the result.