Arsenal were made to work for all three points against a resolute Aston Villa side before goals from Leandro Trossard and Thomas Partey secured the victory.
GB News takes a look at how Arsenal’s players rated in the match.
Arsenal player ratings
David Raya = 8
An unbelievable double save to start the second half with the game still goalless. Changed the game for Arsenal from that point.
Ben White = 6
A testament to his performance in being able to keep Villa’s threat down the left flank to a minimum.
Arsenal got revenge on Aston Villa from last season
PA
Gabriel = 5
Looked shaky at times at the back and should have been punished on more than one occasion.
William Saliba = 8
Had to provide cover for his centre-back partner and pulled off a goal-saving tackle from Jacob Ramsey to keep the score 2-0.
Jurrien Timber = 7
Growing into the Arsenal side more and more and looks to have that inverted left-back slot nailed down.
Martin Odegaard = 6
Was involved in most things great for Arsenal during the match without doing too much in the final third.
Thomas Partey = 7
Looking back to his very best in the middle of Arsenal’s midfield and a brilliantly taken goal to double the Gunners’ lead.
Declan Rice = 5
Caught out a few times on the ball but was solid throughout.
Bukayo Saka = 7
Arsenal’s main man once again and was unfortunate not to get on the scoresheet himself.
Kai Havertz = 4
A ghost for most of the match and missed some good chances in the first half.
Gabriel Martinelli = 4
Was Arsenal’s weak link before being subbed. Will face a battle to keep hold of his starting spot next week.
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Thomas Partey got on the scoresheet
PA
Subs:
Leandro Trossard = 8
Changed the game completely for Arsenal with his electric pace and energy to provide the much-needed spark. Well-taken goal to break the deadlock.
Ricardo Calafiori – N/A
Reiss Nelson – N/A