Saka superb but one player really struggles -Arsenal player ratings vs Southampton

Arsenal claimed another thrilling victory against newly promoted side Southampton, winning 3-1. The match started strongly for the Gunners, who put the Saints under extended and relentless pressure. However, they found it challenging to convert this dominance into goal-scoring chances, with their first shot on target not coming until stoppage time in the first half through Thomas Partey.

After halftime, the situation didn’t improve much, and it was Southampton who took the lead with a counter-attack goal from Cameron Archer. This seemed to spur Arsenal into action, as they equalized shortly after when Kai Havertz capitalized on a through ball from Bukayo Saka.

Arsenal then completed the comeback as Gabriel Martinelli, staying just onside, tapped in Saka’s excellent cross. The match wasn’t over, as Southampton nearly equalized when Taylor Harwood-Bellis struck the bar.

In the closing minutes, Saka found the net by guiding home the rebound from a Leandro Trossard shot, securing the win. Here’s how football.london rated the Arsenal players individually for the match:

David Raya:Similar to last week, he had little to do except retrieve the ball from the net. Unlucky with a slight deflection on Archer’s shot. Rating: 6.

Thomas Partey:The Ghanaian played well overall, with two attempts from outside the box that nearly scored. Arsenal loses something with him at right-back, though he was caught out slightly on the goal. Rating: 6.

William Saliba:Could have done more to prevent Archer from cutting inside onto his right foot for the goal. Solid performance otherwise. Rating: 6.

Gabriel:Took long-range shots early on, reflecting Arsenal’s frustration. Generally performed his defensive duties well. Rating: 6.

Riccardo Calafiori:Excellent going forward, occupying spaces that troubled Southampton. Sometimes overzealous in tackles and perhaps fortunate to avoid a booking. Rating: 7.

Jorginho:Managed play effectively from deep and came close to scoring from the edge of the box. However, he struggled to provide the needed protection against counter-attacks. Rating: 6.

Declan Rice:Showed versatility playing as a left eight and number six, but wasn’t as much of an attacking threat as desired. Rating: 6.

Bukayo Saka: When Arsenal needed a standout performance, Saka delivered yet again. He provided a superb assist for Havertz and an even better cross for Martinelli. Currently, one of the most reliable players in the squad. Rating: 9.

Raheem Sterling: Performed well in his first Premier League start for Arsenal. He was a threat down the left, although he occasionally held onto the ball too long. A solid option for the team moving forward. Rating: 7.

Kai Havertz: Scored a brilliantly taken goal, showcasing the kind of clinical finishing typical of top strikers. Maintains his record of scoring in every game at the Emirates this season. Rating: 8.

Gabriel Jesus:Had the opportunity to shine as a forward but struggled to make an impact. His movement in the box didn’t trouble Southampton, and he failed to register a shot on target. Appears to be low on confidence at the moment. Rating: 5.