Arsenal dropped points in a 2-2 draw with Sunderland after losing their lead, despite standout performances from Leandro Trossard and Bukayo Saka who both scored in a dramatic Premier League clash.
Despite the late drama that saw Arsenal surrender two points in a 2-2 draw with Sunderland, several players showed their class, with four individuals earning a rating of 8/10.
Arsenal player ratings
David Raya – 7/10
The Spanish goalkeeper was tested often and produced a brilliant triple save, demonstrating awareness when blocking Brian Brobbey’s initial chance from a long ball. He should not be held accountable for the opening goal, as Daniel Ballard’s powerful shot was deemed unsavable. However, he was beaten by Brobbey’s final, late tap-in.
Jurrien Timber – 7/10
The full-back showed excellent technical ability throughout the match, seemingly finding a new method to advance the play in recent weeks. He effectively connected passing movements down the right flank, helping to alleviate pressure following Sunderland’s periods of attack.
William Saliba – 7/10
The French defender had a generally solid defensive outing, winning numerous aerial and ground duels. Curiously, he found himself in a forward position with a great chance to level the score after a Bukayo Saka knock-down, but he blazed his volley over the crossbar.
Gabriel – 6/10
The Brazilian centre-back maintained his typical composure under pressure, especially as the opposition ramped up the intensity towards the final whistle. He successfully completed his defensive tasks for most of the game but was ultimately outmuscled by Brobbey, who scored the late equaliser past him.
Riccardo Calafiori – 6/10
Calafiori displayed a slightly unpredictable and energetic performance in the first half which proved effective. He settled into the game as time went on, improving his link-up play with Leandro Trossard on the left side.
Martin Zubimendi – 8/10
Zubimendi delivered another commanding performance in midfield, despite controversially being penalised for the free-kick that led to Sunderland’s first goal. He nearly scored with a superb volley that rattled the crossbar and secured a quiet assist by teeing up Trossard for his phenomenal strike.
Declan Rice – 7/10
The influential midfielder’s attempt at a long-range curling free-kick failed to seriously challenge the Sunderland goalkeeper. He was beaten in a physical contest leading up to the opening goal but redeemed himself by winning the ball in the build-up that eventually led to Saka’s crucial equalising goal.
Eberechi Eze – 6/10
Eze had a mixed afternoon in the final third. He missed a decent opportunity following a midfield error by Enzo Le Fee, firing high and wide. He later saw a second volleyed effort from inside the box go straight into the hands of goalkeeper Robin Roefs.
Bukayo Saka – 8/10
Saka’s performance was marked by both frustration and brilliance. After seeing one volley saved and dragging a great chance wide at the start of the second half, he quickly made amends. He found the back of the net with a low, well-struck effort using his weaker right foot, levelling the game for the Gunners.
Mikel Merino – 6/10
The attacker had limited involvement in the first half due to a lack of service. He was more influential in the second half, notably delivering the pass that set up Bukayo Saka for the equalising goal.
Leandro Trossard – 8/10
Trossard was instrumental in Arsenal’s resurgence after the break, providing some excellent passes. He took control of the game to fire Arsenal into the lead with a thunderous strike from outside the box, curling it high into the net. He will be frustrated that his spectacular effort was not the match-winner.
Substitute
Cristhian Mosquera – 6/10
Mosquera was introduced to replace Eberechi Eze, resulting in a change in the tactical shape of the back line as Arsenal looked to secure the victory.