Arsenal Ratings: Raya Stars in Draw
Arsenal battled to a 2-2 draw against Fulham in a thrilling encounter at the Emirates Stadium. Despite a dominant first half and a two-goal lead, the Gunners conceded two quick goals in the second half to end the game with a frustrating share of the points.
While the result was disappointing, there were a number of individual performances worthy of praise. Here are the Arsenal player ratings from the game:
David Raya (8/10): The new signing had a fantastic debut performance. He showed his composure and confidence with some impressive saves. He was particularly good with his feet, commanding his box and initiating attacks from the back. A real statement from Raya who showcased the potential he brings to the team.
Ben White (7/10): A solid performance at right-back, White was largely composed and reliable defensively. He also contributed to the attack, providing some dangerous crosses and overlapping runs.
William Saliba (6/10): A mixed bag for Saliba. He was dominant in the first half, making crucial tackles and interceptions, but seemed to lose concentration in the second half. He could have done better with Fulham's second goal.
Gabriel Magalhaes (6/10): Like Saliba, Gabriel was strong in the first half but faltered in the second half. He struggled to deal with Fulham's counter-attacks, which ultimately contributed to the conceded goals.
Kieran Tierney (7/10): Tierney was a constant threat down the left flank with his overlapping runs and dangerous crosses. He provided the assist for Saka's goal and was a key contributor to Arsenal's early dominance.
Thomas Partey (7/10): Partey was influential in the midfield, dictating the tempo and winning the ball back. He had a strong first half, but his performance dipped slightly in the second half.
Declan Rice (7/10): Another impressive display from the new signing, Rice showed his composure and control in midfield. He linked well with Partey and created chances for his teammates. He could have been more assertive in the second half.
Martin Ødegaard (7/10): Ødegaard controlled the tempo of the game, creating chances and dictating the flow of the game. He could have done more to take advantage of Fulham's vulnerability in the second half.
Bukayo Saka (7/10): Saka was a constant menace for the Fulham defense with his pace and dribbling skills. He scored a well-taken goal and contributed to Arsenal's attacking dominance.
Gabriel Jesus (6/10): Jesus had a frustrating game despite scoring a brilliant goal. He struggled to hold on to the ball in the second half and failed to capitalize on some good opportunities.
Eddie Nketiah (6/10): Nketiah came on in the second half for Jesus and added some much-needed pace to the attack. He could have done more to convert a late chance.
Substitutes:
Fabio Vieira (6/10): He replaced Rice and helped to inject some energy into the midfield.
Reiss Nelson (6/10): He came on for Saka and added some pace and directness to the attack.
Overall, the draw was a disappointing result for Arsenal, but the performance was encouraging. There were a number of positive individual displays, particularly from the new signings. Arsenal showed their attacking potential and will be looking to build on this performance in their upcoming games.
