🏟️🔥I have never seen a player of such quality before,He was everywhere last night, it’s so unfortunate that Arteta doesn’t have what it takes to manage such a player like Him”, Newcastle coach Eddie Howe praises One Arsenal player for His wonderful performance yesterday – Not Martinelli and Not Havertz

Arsenal lost valuable ground in the title race with a dismal 1-0 defeat to Newcastle United at St. James’ Park. The match got off to a disastrous start for the Gunners, who fell behind within the first 15 minutes when Alexander Isak headed in Anthony Gordon’s excellent cross.

The Gunners struggled throughout the first half but nearly equalized when Lewis Hall blocked Mikel Merino’s close-range effort on the line.

After the break, Arteta made changes by introducing Ethan Nwaneri, Oleksandr Zinchenko, and Gabriel Jesus. However, Arsenal failed to create significant scoring opportunities, aside from a late chance for Declan Rice. Here’s how football.london rated the Gunners individually in the match.

David Raya: Made several solid claims on crosses but had little chance with the goal. 6.

Thomas Partey: Had a difficult time at right-back after a strong performance there against Liverpool. His poor header contributed to the goal. Improved when moved to midfield, but it was too late. 5.

William Saliba: Struggled against Isak, with Joelinton and Willock also causing problems. Showed some ability on the ball but wasn’t at his best in one-on-one situations. 5.

Gabriel: Having the Brazilian back was a boost for Arsenal. He was solid defensively but could do little about the goal. 5.

Jurrien Timber: Had limited impact on the goal due to Gordon’s brilliant delivery. Overall, he defended well and was involved throughout the match. 6.

Declan Rice: His usual excellent set-piece delivery was off, but he made an impact in a more advanced role. Missed a crucial late opportunity. 6.

Mikel Merino: Not the homecoming he hoped for at St. James’ Park. Nearly scored with a shot cleared off the line but was largely uninvolved outside of set pieces and received a booking. 5.

Bukayo Saka: Had a quiet game. Managed a few moments in the first half but struggled to impact the game in dangerous areas. 6.

Gabriel Martinelli: A disappointing performance for the Brazilian. He struggled to beat defenders and posed little threat. 5.

Leandro Trossard: Had a poor afternoon. Failed to get his dribbling going, and his passing was off.

Kai Havertz: Offered little in the match. Struggled against Burn and Schar and failed to control the game. Had one decent cross for Saka but not much else.

SUBSTITUTIONS

Oleksandr Zinchenko: Did not provide the possession security expected and was rather wasteful.

Ethan Nwaneri: Brought energy and increased Arsenal’s attacking intent after the formation change but struggled to create clear chances, managing only one real opportunity.