Recap
Arsenal kept their Premier League title hopes alive with a crucial 2-0 win over Leicester City at the King Power Stadium, moving within four points of league leaders Liverpool. Mikel Merino was the hero for the Gunners, scoring twice in the final 20 minutes after coming off the bench. With no recognized striker due to Kai Havertz’s injury, Arsenal fielded a makeshift front three of Leandro Trossard, Ethan Nwaneri, and Raheem Sterling. Despite struggling to make an impact, especially with Sterling enduring a difficult match, the game turned in Arsenal’s favor when Merino was introduced.
Merino’s first goal came when he headed home Nwaneri’s cross to break the deadlock. He then sealed the win by arriving at the back post to tap in Trossard’s cross, securing all three points for Arsenal. The result was crucial for Mikel Arteta’s side as they aim to stay in the title race.
Player Ratings: Arsenal vs Leicester
Goalkeeper & Defence
- David Raya (6/10): Rarely tested, though had a couple of nervy moments with the ball at his feet.
- Jurrien Timber (7/10): Solid defensively but could have supported Nwaneri more offensively. Delivered one excellent cross that almost resulted in a goal for Merino.
- William Saliba (7/10): A quiet day at the office, with little to do against Leicester’s attack.
- Gabriel Magalhaes (7/10): Comfortable performance alongside Saliba, with no real threats from Leicester.
- Myles Lewis-Skelly (7/10): Another strong showing from the young left-back, including a crucial clearance off the line to prevent a Leicester goal.
Midfield
- Thomas Partey (5/10): Struggled with possession, particularly in the first half, and didn’t look fully sharp.
- Declan Rice (7/10): Arsenal’s best midfielder on the day. Came close with a header but wasn’t always properly supported by his teammates.
- Martin Ødegaard (6/10): Still searching for his best form. Had a few good touches but didn’t take charge when in shooting positions.
Attack
- Raheem Sterling (3/10): A frustrating performance. Failed to make an impact, often caught offside, and was substituted after another poor half.
- Leandro Trossard (6/10): Not at his best, struggled with offside calls, and missed a good opportunity in the first half. However, he did provide the assist for Merino’s second goal.
- Ethan Nwaneri (8/10): By far Arsenal’s best player. Created multiple chances, hit the post and bar, and provided the assist for Merino’s first goal. His performance was a major bright spot in an otherwise difficult match for the team.
Arsenal’s late surge secured a vital three points, with Merino’s double proving to be the difference.
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