Arsenal kicked off their Premier League campaign in style as Mikel Arteta’s side secured a 2-0 win against Wolves at the Emirates Stadium.
A first-half goal from Kai Havertz opened the scoring in the first game of the 2024/25 season for Arsenal.
Wolves struggled to contain the threat of Arteta’s side, who continued where they left off last term with a deserved three points to kick off the campaign.
Havertz netted the first goal of the season by heading expertly past Jose Sa, finishing Bukayo Saka’s inch-perfect cross into the box from the right.
The England international then handed the visitors a blow as the tide started to turn in the second half, firing a deceiving shot at goal to double Arsenal’s lead.
Jurrien Timber returned to competitive action after a year on the sidelines on what was an all-around memorable day for the hosts.
Here’s how the players rated at the Emirates against Wolves.
Arsenal player ratings vs Wolves
David Raya – 6.5
When Raya was called into action he was more than ready. The Spaniard pulled off an unbelievable save to deny Jorgen Strand Larsen in the first half and kept Wolves at bay in the second.
Ben White – 6.5
White started the season how he ended the last, excelling on the right side of defence in support of Saka. Always looking to make something happen and was efficient going forward.
William Saliba – 6
Similarly to Raya, it was a less exciting day for Saliba in comparison to those in attack. The centre-back was assured, calm and composed when required, the way he reads the game is so vital.
Gabriel Magalhaes – 6
Like his central defensive partner, Gabriel was strong when called upon, as tidy as ever and well in control of the threat Wolves attempted to cause.
Oleksandr Zinchenko – 6
Zinchenko always looked to make something happen however, it wasn’t always useful. The Ukrainian caused some anxiety as his progressive thinking jeopardised his defensive positioning.
Declan Rice – 6.5
After making the move to Arsenal, many questioned if Rice could make the next step and provide going forward. The midfielder is thriving under Arteta in that department, which he showed through his activity in front of goal against Wolves.
Thomas Partey – 5.5
It’s clear why Arteta is hoping to sign Mikel Merino this summer as the only frailty coming from Arsenal’s midfield was Partey. The Ghanaian lost control several times in the second half and failed to limit the danger.
Martin Odegaard – 8
Not only is Odegaard a leader and a magician with the ball at his feet, but the Arsenal skipper is one of the hardest workers in the squad. The midfielder pressed tirelessly and made things happen out of nothing.
Bukayo Saka – 9
A goal and an assist on the opening day capped off a sensational performance from Saka. It’s difficult to believe that the Englishman had a limited pre-season due to his participation at the Euros. Set Havertz up delightfully and finished his goal ruthlessly, when he’s at his best there are very few better.
Kai Havertz – 8
Havertz pressed high and was meaningful with every movement on the ball, he linked so well with Saka and scored an expertly taken goal.
Gabriel Martinelli – 5
It’s clear that Martinelli means well however, the Brazilian looked very indecisive when it counted. On several occasions during the game, the winger made the wrong call and rarely caused Wolves problems.
Substitutes
Jurrien Timber – 6.5
Explosive pace and a clear goal to be direct. Timber appears to be so much stronger than Zinchenko on the left side and left many happy with his cameo after spending so much time away from the action.
Leandro Trossard – 6
Came on to replace Saka on the right which was a decision that surprised many, introduced late on.
Gabriel Jesus – 6.5
Looked lively as soon as he came on the pitch, so direct and so difficult to dispossess when at full pace.
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