3 winners & losers from the September international break

It’s been a while since we’ve had to endure the monotony of an international break, but get used to it folks, because more are heading our way in October and November.

Yay.

Nevertheless, it was a busy period for many of Arsenal’s stars as 16 players represented their respective nations in September. The conclusion of Tuesday’s matches means our eyes are now firmly on Sunday’s trip to Everton, but before we get into previewing that contest, let’s review how our Gunners performed on international duty.

3 winners & losers from the September international break

Here are three Arsenal winners and losers from the September international break.

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Winner #1 – Takehiro Tomiyasu

Despite Jurrien Timber’s injury, Tomiyasu has again played a mere bit-part role for Arsenal this season. However, after impressing off the bench versus Man Utd, the Japanese international enjoyed one hell of a break that undoubtedly would’ve caught the eye of the boss.

While he only played 11 minutes of Japan’s 4-2 win over Turkey, he was the standout performer as his nation secured a memorable 4-1 triumph over Germany in Wolfsburg. Deployed as a left-sided centre-back in a back four, Tomiyasu produced a masterclass. Robust, progressive, and assured, the Arsenal man was a thorn in Die Mannschaft’s attacking efforts.

It was a display that highlighted his versatility and showed just how valuable he remains for the Gunners.

Losers #1 – All of the goalkeepers

This wasn’t a great break for Arsenal’s trio of goalkeepers. While Aaron Ramsdale earned his first England start in over a year against Scotland, Harry Maguire’s boot meant he wasn’t able to keep a clean sheet.

For Rambo, it’s unlikely that he’ll be England’s number one at Euro 2024 presuming Jordan Pickford remains fit.

David Raya, meanwhile, wasn’t used at all by Spain and poor Karl Hein conceded just the ten goals as Estonia were trounced by Sweden and Belgium. Leandro Trossard was on target for the Red Devils.

Continued on the next slide…