3 positives & negatives from Arsenal's sloppy win over Shakhtar Donetsk

  • Gunners secured a tight victory
  • A win is all that matters
  • One player could have appeared
The Gunners secured a close win tonight
The Gunners secured a close win tonight / Catherine Ivill - AMA/GettyImages
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Positive #3: Left side looking good

Gabriel Martinelli, Riccardo Calafiori
Martinelli and Calafiori looked good on the left / Catherine Ivill - AMA/GettyImages

Arsenal's left side have struggled at times this season but looked very impressive against Shakhtar. The duo of Gabriel Martinelli and Riccardo Calafiori performed well on Tuesday evening.

Martinelli looked truly up for it as he constantly troubled the opposition defence. It was his shot that led to the own goal that ultimately gave the Gunners the victory, prompting Martinelli to be named the Champions League player of the match. The Brazil international's performance against Shakhtar proved that his recent return to form looks to be permanent.

Calafiori also looked bright against the Ukrainian side as he played with aggression and looked to dominate his opposition. The Italian helped out in defence but also contributed in attack. His showing on Tuesday night showed that he has adapted to the inverted left back role very well. Calafiori was withdrawn through injury in the second-half and it will be hoped it is not a serious issue.

It was a great all-round showing from Arsenal's left side as they were pivotal in securing the win over Shakhtar.


Negative #3: Gabriel Jesus just can't score

Gabriel Jesus
Jesus could not finish in front of goal / Chloe Knott - Danehouse/GettyImages

Gabriel Jesus looked lively against Shakhtar but struggled to score once again. The Brazilian has not netted since January and had two good chances to break his duck on Tuesday evening but just could not convert.

Other aspects of Jesus' play were brilliant but it is clear he needs to seriously improve on his finishing. Questions should now be arising over his ability.

It is starting to appear as if he may not be a good enough attacker to be playing for Arsenal. As shown against Shakhtar, his ability as a footballer is relatively good but his finishing needs work. A good attacker must be able to contribute the odd goal or two if they are to have a future at Arsenal.


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