3 standout players from the opening night victory over Crystal Palace

2. Gabriel Jesus

All that was missing from Gabriel Jesus’ Premier League debut was a goal. Everything else was there. He led the press from the front, harrying Palace players relentlessly. His close control, dribbling and agility were likewise impressive as he turned and drove towards goal with the utmost determination.

Jesus’ build-up play also caught the eye. He could have had one or two assists as he slid the ball into the likes of Gabriel Martinelli and Martin Odegaard with pinpoint precision. He has also added a much-needed fluidity and unpredictability to this new-look Arsenal attack, frequently interchanging with Martinelli and Bukayo Saka in wide areas. The centre-forward’s strengths will only become more apparent as he continues to develop his already blossoming partnerships with the rest of the front line.

Rarely has a performance been so stark in comparison to what came before. Alexandre Lacazette had his strengths but Jesus’ ability is nothing short of incredible. His qualities are reflective of this Arsenal team as a whole.

Explosive, lively, dedicated off the ball and technically impressive on it, Jesus is leading Arsenal into an exciting new era.

Continued on the next slide…