Arsenal suffered a 1-0 defeat at the hands of Liverpool on Saturday afternoon, with Dominik Szoboszlai’s late free-kick proving to be the difference at Anfield
In a tightly contested match, it was Liverpool who emerged victorious, courtesy of a stunning free-kick from Dominik Szoboszlai in the 83rd minute.
The Reds top the Premier League table as we head into the season’s first international break, having secured a nine points from their initial three matches. However, the Gunners will need to regroup before they return to action.
Here, Daily Star Sport assesses the performances of the Arsenal players at Anfield on what proved to be a disappointing day for Mikel Arteta’s side.
David Raya – By his high standards, he seemed unusually unsteady with the ball and his misplaced pass to Zubimendi almost resulted in a Liverpool goal in the first half when the Gunners were in control. As wonderful as the goal was, he was beaten from 40 yards out. 4.
Jurrien Timber – Another solid defensive performance from Timber against the energetic Cody Gakpo. He also provided support to Noni Madueke in attack. 6.
Cristhian Mosquera – Not the ideal game to be thrown into within the first five minutes. However, the Arsenal newcomer handled both the atmosphere and the state of play admirably. 6.
Gabriel Magalhaes – As always, he was solid despite his fellow centre-back partner being forced off with an early injury. He led the defensive line effectively once again and Mikel Arteta will need him to stay fit given Saliba’s injury. 6.
Ricciardo Calafiori – Arguably his finest defensive performance in an Arsenal kit, he managed to keep Mohamed Salah at bay throughout the match. He’s making it increasingly difficult for Arteta to consider playing Myles Lewis-Skelly in his place. 7.
Declan Rice – Mr Reliable can have no regrets. He brilliantly disrupted Liverpool’s attacks in the final third and his tireless work rate ensured his opponents had little time to settle on the ball. However, his set-piece delivery was woeful. 5.
Martin Zubimendi – Another subdued afternoon for the Spanish midfielder in what turned out to be a challenging contest in the centre of the pitch. 5.
Mikel Merino – Arteta’s bold decision to start Merino in midfield paid off. His presence gave the Gunners control in the centre of the pitch, even though it meant they lacked some creativity from players like Martin Odegaard and Eberechi Eze. Substituted off before the goal. 6.
Noni Madueke – Alongside Calafiori, he was Arsenal’s standout player at Anfield. He gave Milos Kerkez a torrid time down the right flank and provided defensive support to Timber when needed. 7.
Gabriel Martinelli – Another disappointing day at the office for Martinelli, who once again showed little composure going forward. He had an early counter-attack opportunity but failed to spot Viktor Gyokeres making a run behind the Liverpool defence. 3.
Viktor Gyokeres – A quiet afternoon for the Swedish striker, with Ibrahima Konate and Virgil van Dijk keeping him well contained. 4.
Martin Odegaard – 6.
Eberechi Eze – 6.
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