Arsenal player ratings vs Man City: Defensive trio make huge impact but Bukayo Saka suffers
Arsenal stayed above Manchester City in the Premier League as they played out a hard-fought draw at Etihad Stadium.
The Gunners were knocked off top spot before kick-off after Liverpool defeated Brighton in Sunday’s early game.
Arsenal still possess a miserable record at the Etihad and, before this draw, had lost their last eight visits.
But they dug deep to play out a goalless draw, which means they are second in the league and two points off leaders Liverpool.
Simon Collings was at the Etihad to deliver his Arsenal player ratings...
David Raya 6
Kicking was a bit off early on as Arsenal struggled with City’s press. Called into action less than you’d expect in a game of this magnitude.
Ben White 8
Caused problems when he got forward on the overlap and created two good chances in the first-half. Defensively excellent against Phil Foden, too.
William Saliba 7
Nervy in the opening stages, particularly in possession. Grew in composure as the game went on.
Gabriel 8 | Star player
Had a great battle with Erling Haaland and was able to match his physicality. Made countless blocks and tackles. A warrior at the back.
Jakub Kiwior 6
Looked a bit shaky early on, but got better as the game wore on. Taken off with just over an hour gone.
Martin Odegaard 7
Usually his side’s chief playmaker, had to settle for working a lot without the ball today. Pressed City’s defence like a man possessed at times.
Jorginho 7
Got through a lot of dirty work in the midfield, especially as Arsenal dug in early on. His experience will be vital in the run-in.
Declan Rice 8
Like Jorginho, put in a big shift as the Gunners had little of the ball in the first-half. Played deeper than he has recently. Broke up play so well.
Produced one great moment in the second-half, but Jesus couldn’t turn in his cross. Other than that, was quiet. Perhaps not fully fit?
Kai Havertz 6
Played very deep as Arsenal sat in. When he could, gave his side a decent outlet on the counter.
Gabriel Jesus 6
Had Arsenal’s best chances of the game, including two in the first-half. A surprise starter on the left flank, but was lively.
Substitutions
Takehiro Tomiyasu (Kiwior 66’) 6
Came on to stop the threat of Jeremy Doku and was solid
Thomas Partey (Jorginho 66’) 5
Still working his way back to full fitness and rusty at times.
Leandro Trossard (Jesus 72’) N/A
Gabriel Martinelli (Saka 78’) N/A
Subs not used: Ramsdale, Zinchenko, Vieira, Smith Rowe and Nketiah.
