Declan Rice was hailed as the standout performer in Arsenal’s commanding 4-0 Champions League victory over Atlético Madrid, receiving a nine-out-of-ten rating from the Standard. The midfielder was described as a “monster performance” who “covered so much ground” and “created Gabriel’s goal with a free-kick that David Beckham would have been proud of.”
Striker Viktor Gyökeres, who scored a brace to end his seven-game goal drought, earned an eight-out-of-ten. The report noted he “deserved his goals as his overall game, and especially how he linked the play, was impressive.”
Arsenal Player ratings
David Raya (7.8): Played with his outfielders and made an easy save of Atléti’s only shot on target.
Made a spectacular save to deny Conor Gallagher in play that was ultimately canceled for a foul in the build up.
Jurrien Timber (7.5): Had a shaky start but grew into the game as fast. Not the best of performances from him but contributed well to the team going forward.
William Saliba (7.1): Had a busy evening with Julian Alvarez proving a handful for both him and Gabriel but played his part, especially with his passing to help build up from the back.
Gabriel (8.7): The Brazilian was subbed off to a standing ovation after a brilliant performance, where he not only contributed defensively but scored one and assisted another.
Myles Lewis-Skelly (8.2): Probably the most eyecatcher on the night. The England international has a huge job on his hands with the form of Riccardo Calafiori but with such performance, with was capped off by an assist for the second goal, Mikel Arteta mus be pleased with his options.
Martin Zubimendi (7.9): Picked up a booking that will see him miss the next game. His passing was important in unlocking Atléti earlier in the second-half.
Declan Rice (8.1): Again, spectacular. The midfielder was deadly with his set-piece deliveries, one of which led to the opener. Was everywhere, both as creator and destroyer, ensuring the Atléti midfield is kept at bay.
Eberechi Eze (7.1): Tried to make things happen on the rare occasions he was on the ball. Still trying to discover his best form in a new environment.
Gabriel Martinelli (8.0): Arsenal’s brightest star in Europe was at his best again. Electric, especially after the interval. Scored one and was heavily involved in two others.
Viktor Gyokeres (8.9): Finally ended a long drought with a brace. Gyokeres worked hard for the chances and took them when they come. Massive boost for the club for their striker to finally get among the goals.
Bukayo Saka (8.0): Didn’t get the goal involvement that his bright performance deserves but again showed his consistency on the big stage.