5 talking points ARSENAL win vs Everton 0-1|Arsenal’s Everton hoodoo ends | Trossard the match-winner

1. David Raya’s debut

In a game marked by key rotations, Mikel Arteta made strategic changes, introducing David Raya into the starting lineup, while Fábio Vieira replaced Kai Havertz. Eddie retained his starting role, prompting questions about the reasoning behind these rotations. It’s quite possible that Ramsdale, Havertz, and Jesus might feature in the upcoming Champions League clash against PSV.

David Raya’s performance against Everton was nothing short of impeccable. While he wasn’t severely tested throughout the match, making only one save, his distribution was truly exceptional, with 37 out of 39 passes completed. This standout performance raises the possibility of him challenging Ramsdale for the starting spot in the near future.

2. Unlucky Gabi

Gabriel Martinelli experienced a streak of misfortune during the match. First, his goal was disallowed due to Eddie being offside when rejoining play. Shortly after, Martinelli was substituted off due to a hamstring injury, adding to his woes. Even Gary Neville found Martinelli’s disallowed goal perplexing.

Gabriel Martinelli’s disallowed goal even left Gary Neville perplexed. 

3. Another Slow Start

Arsenal’s recurring slow starts are beginning to test the patience of both fans and pundits alike. The team has struggled to create chances, particularly against well-organized defensive setups. To overcome this challenge, the players need to exhibit bravery and clinical finishing when goal-scoring opportunities arise. The hope is that the second half of games will bring about an improvement in this aspect.

The team’s reluctance to take on opponents one-on-one and its tendency to continuously probe for an opening have contributed to these slow starts, which have become a cause for concern.

4. The Breakthrough 

Leandro Trossard’s goal was a moment of brilliance. VAR had no reason to disallow it, and it proved to be the breakthrough Arsenal needed at Goodison Park. The passage of play leading up to Trossard’s goal was reminiscent of beautiful poetry in motion. Everton is known for its defensive solidity, so when opportunities do arise, clinical finishing becomes paramount. Trossard exemplified this with his precise finish, even on his weaker foot, striking the ball against the inside of the post.

5. One-nil to The Arsenal: Breaking the Goodison Park curse

This hard-fought 1-0 victory was a great achievement for Arsenal, breaking the curse at Goodison Park and securing their first win against Everton since the Arsène Wenger era. Although the overall team performance left much to be desired, the result was the essential outcome. Not every game allows a team to showcase its swagger, but the ability to secure victories under such circumstances is the hallmark of a true champion. Arsenal fans can now celebrate a well-earned win against a historically challenging opponent.