3 standout players from win over Chelsea in London derby

2. Gabriel Jesus

While he was unable to have the effect he would have liked against his old club last week, Gabriel Jesus’ high-octane style was on full display against the Blues. Players can often take a while to get back up to full speed after injury, slowly regaining confidence in their body and robustness. Jesus, however, has hit the ground running again.

Since returning after his operation, he has not only picked up where he left off, he has improved. An unfortunate goal drought cropped up before the World Cup, but he has now scored five goals in his last six games. He converted against Chelsea, creating chaos in the box before lashing in from close range.

His influence was seen in the two other goals as well. Drifting over to the left, he combined with Granit Xhaka before the latter slid in two beautiful balls across the box which Odegaard fired home. In the second half, Jesus’ all-around game as opposed to his goalscoring was on display. He pinned the Chelsea centre-backs effectively, winning first and second balls before turning and laying it off to the likes of Saka and Odegaard. His physicality and close control allowed Arsenal to get up the pitch when under pressure. Several excellent chances were created this way on the counter.

The Brazilian still has deficiencies in his game. His finishing at the back post when balls are lofted in is particularly abject. There is no doubt, however, that he has been a revelation for Arsenal since signing in the summer. Long may it continue.

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