4 observations from Arsenal’s 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace

As it so often is for top teams at Selhurst Park, Monday night was a grind for Arsenal as they edged out Crystal Palace 1-0.

Maybe it’s a mix of new players in the starting XI or the subtle systematic switch overseen by Mikel Arteta, but Arsenal have not been at their best to start 2023/24 despite claiming back-to-back wins.

Neither match has been easy and Monday night at Selhurst Park tested the focus of Arteta’s Arsenal. Down a man for the last 30 minutes of the contest, Arsenal protected their 1-0 advantage from a Martin Odegaard penalty conversion.

The Gunners haven’t been at their best in four halves of football but have been good enough to come away with the maximum amount of points. Hopefully, they can build on the victories and make life easier in the matches ahead.

4 observations from Arsenal’s 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace

Here are four observations from Monday’s win.

1. Gabriel missing again

I’m not sure whether it’s the inks to the Saudi Pro League, but for the second match in a row, Gabriel was not in the starting XI.

However, as he was against Forest, the Brazilian was brought on late to protect the lead. I’m still puzzled as to why one of Arsenal’s standout performers last season has been limited to the role of a ‘stopper’.

Arteta is experimenting with his dynamics and his attempting to assert even more control on games by using Thomas Partey as an inverted right-back. Will this continue throughout the season? That remains to be seen, but I think the questions will continue every match Gabriel doesn’t start, especially when he is making match-saving plays down the stretch to protect the lead.

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