It was an important result for Arsenal on Sunday as they stopped Manchester City from gaining any ground on them in the race for the Premier League title – with the defence shining in particular.
Going into the game, both sides will have seen LIverpool come from behind to beat Roberto De Zerbi’s Brighton at Anfield – winning 2-1. The Reds beating a manager that could actually replace Jurgen Klopp.
A win for Arsenal would have seen them go top of the Premier League table given their superior goal difference over Liverpool. City would have only gone a point behind the Reds, had they won the game.
But, it ended 0-0. Indeed, Arsenal were probably the better side and certainly had the better chances on Sunday afternoon. Arsenal’s defence was rock solid, as Gabriel and William Saliba continue to sparkle.
Gabriel kept Erling Haaland quiet during Arsenal draw with City
Garth Crooks named his Team of the Week on Sunday evening and raved about Saliba, saying the Arsenal man goes unnoticed a lot. He was also full of praise for his Arsenal teammate and partner, in Gabriel.
The Brazil star was excellent, making a tackle, an interception, four clearances and completing 22 of his 26 passes – as per WhoScored. Crooks raved about the Arsenal star for keeping 23-year-old Haaland quiet.
“I felt compelled to pick Gabriel, who handled Erling Haaland brilliantly. They locked horns and there was a moment when the camera actually picked up the red-hot level of intensity between the two players.
“Gabriel is a warrior. He completely outbattled Haaland. Arsenal have taken away the rough edges in Gabriel’s game without losing any of his competitive edge and he is now proving to be a real asset.”
Arsenal’s secret weapon in title race is becoming clear
Bukayo Saka is a real threat, Martin Odegaard is the creative heartbeat of the side and the defenside shield in front of the defence is near perfect. But it is in central defence, where Arsenal have improved.
Saliba came in at Arsenal last season after struggling to make an impression, and while impressing – there were still flaws. Gabriel has often drifted into the red zone, too much. But they have improved, greatly.
That is the difference from last season. Arsenal are defensively incredible and that frailty from last season has disspiated. Hopefully for The Gunners, they can remain injury free over the next couple of months.
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