3 positives and negatives from Arsenal’s NLD triumph

LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 01: Mikel Arteta, Manager of Arsenal applauds fans after the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Tottenham Hotspur at Emirates Stadium on October 01, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 01: Mikel Arteta, Manager of Arsenal applauds fans after the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Tottenham Hotspur at Emirates Stadium on October 01, 2022 in London, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images) /
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Positive #2: Gabriel Jesus

Gabriel Jesus scored just his second goal against Spurs. (Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images)
Gabriel Jesus scored just his second goal against Spurs. (Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images) /

Once again, Jesus is on the positive side. His goal was a classic poacher’s effort, but it doesn’t matter – a goal to take the lead is a goal to take the lead.

He had a few other chances to score in this match and was once again always involved in the game thanks to his movement and ability on the ball. A big reason why Arsenal can cycle possession so well in the opposition’s third is due to his willingness to interchange and ignite combinations.

He’s taken our attack to new heights this season, and it was great to see him show up and make an impact in the North London derby.

Negative #2: Granit Xhaka

I lied. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)
I lied. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images) /

Sorry, I lied. There’s not much negative stuff to talk about so we’re getting a bonus positive. Xhaka scored a goal, but he was immense all-around on Saturday. A goal in the North London derby to put an exclamation mark on his redemption. He’s a quality leader and a quality player.

To see him produce a Man of the Match-worthy performance on the big occasions with the fans singing his name was incredible.

Continued on the next slide…