Best of the best
- Granit Xhaka - 10/10
The Swiss international has become a world-beater under Mikel Arteta, and he proved his class once again. The 27-year-old bossed the midfield with his passes, misplacing just 2 of 30, and protected the defenders with constant tackles, interceptions and blocks. Was pivotal in containing David Silva.
- Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang - 9/10
The forward won the game for Arsenal with two goals, giving us an early lead and then calming things down with a second-half finish. Dispelled the myth that he does not score against big teams.
- David Luiz - 9/10
It was a special game for the centre-back after his June horror show against the same opponent, and David responded brilliantly. Sensational defending from the Brazilian. Looked confident in possession and nearly added an assist feeding Auba in the first half.
- Kieran Tierney - 8/10
An inspirational performance from the Scot. Slotted into the back-three, KT showed his usual grit and fighting spirit. The defender becomes an ace in the hole in Arsenal's attacking build-up, having set up Auba's second goal. You get a feeling he is on the way to become a legend at this football club.
- Ainsley Maitland-Niles - 8/10
Ains was impeccable in defence. Asked to play in a position where he had not featured for several months, the 22-year-old cancelled Riyad Mahrez, one of the best wingers in the Premier League.
- Alexandre Lacazette - 8/10
A selfless performance from Laca. Pressed the opposition's defenders well, tracked back when needed, dropped deep in search of the ball. Good in link-up play.
Other Gunners:
- Emiliano Martinez - 8/10
Simply flawless.
- Hector Bellerin - 7/10
Sharp in attack, not always reliable in defence.
- Shkodran Mustafi - 7.5/10
A couple of nervy moments from the German but did good overall.
- Dani Ceballos - 8/10
Asked to defend more often than he has ever done in his Arsenal career. Rose to the occasion.
- Nicolas Pepe - 7/10
A great cross to set up Auba; otherwise, needs to be more consistent.
Subs: Joe Willock, Lucas Torreira, Rob Holding, Sead Kolasinac – N/A
Do you agree with our assessment? Who was your Man of the Match? Tell us in the comments or chip in via blogs!
