Positives & negatives from Arsenal's 1-0 win at Manchester United

Negative #1: Arsenal's pointless passing

Even allowing for early season rust, it was disturbing how often the Gunners failed to string two and three passes together. Too many players hesitated to make a quick pass, while others simply never got the pace and weight right.

Accuracy was also an issue, with Arsenal's outfielders missing too many simple passes players at this level should find elementary. Even skipper Martin Odegaard, who was the most comfortable on the ball, made too many poor decisions.

Odegaard often waited a mite too long to release the ball, wasting opportunities to break the lines in the process. If he took an age, others around Odegaard were too often content to play the ball first time, instead of taking a touch, getting it under control and waiting for the right option.

This disparity left the Gunners disjointed in possession, and things rarely improved. Not even when summer import Martin Zubimendi grew slowly (very slowly) into the latter stages, showing off the composure and thoughtful distribution Arsenal need more of this season.

Arteta's team has a greater need for some magic. A little flair, guile and vision. Whether it's a deft flick or an inch-perfect ball slid between two defenders. Anything to increase the pace moving forward and create chances for the one player bought to take them.

Positive #2: Viktor Gyökeres not afraid to mix it

Gyökeres' league debut qualifies as a positive, despite him enduring just about an hour of mostly frustrating tussles. Yet, while he took his share of bumps and bruises, Gyökeres' willingness to mix it with De Ligt and the rest of a handsy United defence was encouraging.

Arsenal have a frontman who isn't going to shy away from the rough and tumble of the Premier League. That's no-small bonus for a striker expected to transform this team.

He didn't come close to doing that or silencing the United faithful, but Gyökeres did stick to his task in a creditable way. There were even a few neat touches to go with some smart work running the channels.

Those are things the Gunners must exploit more often and more effectively. They can expect to once Gyökeres has built stronger chemistry with those around him. It may take time, but the 27-year-old won't lack for effort.

In the meantime, Arsenal must improve the movement around Gyökeres after a static and unimaginative performance off the ball.

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