Arsenal bounced back from their recent poor run of form to stroll to a comfortable 5-0 victory against Crystal Palace.
The crowd at the Emirates Stadium was treated to an enjoyable display as Mikel Arteta’s side dusted off the cobwebs from the last few weeks and found their form in front of goal again, albeit against a poor Crystal Palace side who continued to struggle under Roy Hodgson.
Gabriel Magalhaes thought he had scored a first-half brace from set pieces, before his second strike was later ruled as an own goal from goalkeeper Dean Henderson, and Arsenal barely got out of second gear before sealing the victory through further goals from Leandro Trossard and a brace from Gabriel Martinelli.
Although Arsenal were dominant and comfortable in their win, there were early signs that the attack was still not flowing freely following the mid-season break, but there was plenty of encouragement to be taken by what was a near-perfect display in the context of the Premier League title race.
Arsenal player ratings vs Crystal Palace
David Raya – 8/10
One of David Raya’s most assured performances since joining. Comfortable on all set-pieces in the air and played a huge part in the third goal with an outstanding pass to Gabriel Jesus.
Ben White – 8/10
White looked sharp after a much-needed rest in the winter break, was solid defensively and supported a lot of attacks.
William Saliba – 7/10
Didn’t do too much wrong, but found Jean-Philippe Mateta a handful to deal with at times.
Gabriel Magalhaes – 9/10
Gabriel was outstanding throughout his whole performance. The £27m star scored the first after clever movement in the box, and created the second with another brave header. Unbeatable defensively and tidy on the ball.
Oleksandr Zinchenko – 7/10
Zinchenko returned to the lineup and delivered a much-improved display after a shaky run of form. Offered calmness in possession and got forward well at times.
Declan Rice – 8/10
Another strong performance from Declan Rice, who was praised for “dominating” the central areas of the pitch, and won the midfield battle with ease.
Kai Havertz – 6/10
Havertz didn’t do much wrong, but failed to create anything of note and could have offered more in attacking areas. Arsenal found a lot more fluency going forward when he was substituted for Emile Smith Rowe.
Martin Odegaard – 7/10
Odegaard had some nice moments, especially at the start of the second half. A good display which could have been better with further output in the final third.
Bukayo Saka – 7/10
An improved display from his performances in recent weeks, but Saka will be frustrated that he could not get on the scoresheet. Delivered a good corner for the second goal. Should perhaps have been substituted off when 3-0 up.
Leandro Trossard – 7/10
Trossard took his goal well, but his overall performance still left something to be desired. Did not take advantage of the space offered to him by Nathaniel Clyne at times, and missed a few half chances, but will be glad to have found the back of the net.
Gabriel Jesus – 8/10
Jesus frustratingly found himself offside on several occasions, but otherwise put in a strong showing. Produced a fine assist for Trossard’s goal and should have had another as he found space in behind. Overall good display, but still lacking goals.
Substitutes
Gabriel Martinelli – 9/10
Emile Smith Rowe – 8/10
Jorginho – 8/10
Eddie Nketiah – 7/10
Jakub Kiwior – 7/10
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