Arsenal kicked off their Premier League title defence in dominant fashion as they cruised to a 3-0 win over Coventry. The job was done for the Gunners three minutes into the second-half, when Martin Odegaard made terrible contact with a shot but it somehow found a way past Carl Rushworth.
Gunners in Control at Half-Time
By that stage, Arsenal were already in complete control after going in at half-time two goals up. Kai Havertz scored the first goal of the new season, firing in first-time from a Riccardo Calafiori cross, before Bukayo Saka made the most of some more unconvincing goalkeeping.
Matt Verri was at the Emirates to rate the Arsenal players.
Standout Performances
Christos Tzolis was awarded a 9/10 rating, described as "absolutely electric" and "ran Coventry ragged." Bukayo Saka, back to something close to his best, scored and was a constant threat, earning an 8/10. Declan Rice also impressed with an 8/10, "back with a bang" and full of running in midfield.
Martin Odegaard and Ben White both received 8/10 ratings, with Odegaard leading the way for tackles and White a constant threat on the overlap. David Raya earned a 7/10 for a stress-free night.
Substitutes Make an Impact
Among the substitutes, Martin Zubimendi and Mikel Merino each earned 7/10 ratings, with Merino nearly adding a fourth late on. Noni Madueke and Eberechi Eze both received 6/10, while Piero Hincapie came on too late to be rated.
