Mikel Arteta's Arsenal erupted with a breathtaking display of attacking football, demolishing a beleaguered Crystal Palace side 5-0 in a one-sided Premier League clash at the Emirates Stadium. The Gunners banished any lingering doubts with a performance of sheer dominance, led by the electric Gabriel Martinelli and the clinical Leandro Trossard.
Arsenal's Attacking Onslaught
The home side set the tempo from the first whistle, controlling possession and penning Palace deep in their own half. The breakthrough came from a well-worked set-piece, with Gabriel Magalhaes rising highest to power a header home. The lead was swiftly doubled by a familiar source of goals as the in-form Leandro Trossard finished a slick move with typical composure.
Martinelli's Magical Cameo
The second half turned into the Gabriel Martinelli show. Introduced as a substitute, the Brazilian winger was simply unplayable. He put the result beyond any doubt with a quick-fire brace, showcasing his devastating pace and lethal finishing. He wasn't done there, turning provider for another substitute to cap a magnificent individual and team performance.
Defensive Solidity Returns
While the attackers will grab the headlines, the clean sheet will please Arteta immensely. The centre-back pairing of William Saliba and Gabriel were imperious, snuffing out any rare Palace forays with ease. Ben White and Oleksandr Zinchenko provided constant width and security, contributing to a complete performance from back to front.
Arsenal Player Ratings
David Raya: 7/10
A spectator for large periods. Commanded his box well and distributed calmly, with little to do.
Ben White: 8/10
Solid defensively and a constant outlet on the right. Linked up effectively all game.
William Saliba: 8/10
A rock at the back. His pace and strength were never troubled. A classy performance.
Gabriel Magalhaes: 8/10
Opened the scoring with a thunderous header and was a threat all game. Defensively sound.
Oleksandr Zinchenko: 7/10
Drifted into midfield to help overload and dictate play. A comfortable afternoon.
Martin Odegaard: 8/10
The conductor. Pulled the strings in midfield with his incisive passing and movement.
Declan Rice: 8/10
Broke up play and kept things simple. A powerful, dominating presence in the engine room.
Kai Havertz: 7/10
Worked tirelessly and linked the play well. Growing into his role in the team.
Bukayo Saka: 7/10
A constant menace on the right wing, drawing fouls and creating chances.
Leandro Trossard: 9/10
A constant menace and a clinical finisher. Took his goal superbly and was a thorn in Palace's side all game.
Gabriel Jesus: 7/10
Unlucky not to score. His movement and hold-up play were excellent.
Substitutes:
Gabriel Martinelli: 10/10
A perfect impact. Two goals and an assist in a devastating cameo. Simply sensational.
Emile Smith Rowe: 7/10
Looked bright and energetic after coming on.
Eddie Nketiah: 7/10
Got on the scoresheet with a well-taken finish.
Jorginho: 7/10
Brought control and experience to see the game out.
Jakub Kiwior: N/A
