Chelsea at Arsenal player ratings: First major preseason tune-up

Chelsea continued its unbeaten preseason run with a 2-1 win against Arsenal to kick-off The Mind Series. The Blues were in control for much of the match with Kai Havertz firing the Champions of Europe ahead. A relatively late equalizer by the Gunners against the makeshift Chelsea defense saw the hosts get on the front foot again for a small period of time. A mistake at the back for Arsenal saw Tammy Abraham get in on goal, where he slotted it home for the eventual winner just moments later. This game had a regular season feel to it with a lot of intensity on both sides. Nevertheless, there were mistakes aplenty as supporters were reminded that this one doesn’t count for anything.

We know the Blues won, but how did the Chelsea team perform against Arsenal as individuals?

Edouard Mendy (Goalkeeper): 8/10

Edouard Mendy looked to be in top form in his first meaningful showing of preseason. Does the Senegalese shot-stopper have another gear? It remains to be seen. He had little to do during the first half, but as Arsenal grew into the game, Mendy stepped up. The keeper cut out crosses effectively, distributed efficiently and ultimately kept a clean sheet during his time on the pitch. Big things ahead for the Blues’ No. 1.

Kurt Zouma (Right centerback): 8/10

Kurt Zouma’s last week has been hectic as rumors of the club’s intent to sell him have emerged. Zouma has been linked to Sevilla and West Ham, but he showed Chelsea on Sunday exactly why he deserves a chance to stay at Stamford Bridge. Zouma was comfortable in possession and he cut out passes with ease. We even got treated to a hard, precise tackle from the Frenchman in an important moment early on.

Trevoh Chalobah (Centerback): 9.5/10

Trevoh Chalobah belongs at Chelsea and that was evident in his Man of the Match performance on Sunday. There have been question marks ahead of this game surrounding his future, reasonably so, but he showed us all why he deserves a spot. Chalobah looked like a seasoned veteran in the heart of central defense, defending with a cool head throughout. He was subbed off in the 86′ as he played more minutes than anybody else in blue. The Tottenham match in a matter of days is going to be extremely important in figuring out Chalobah’s immediate future.

Antonio Rudiger (Left centerback): 7/10

It was nice to see Antonio Rudiger out on the pitch donning the Chelsea badge again. He had a relatively shaky game early on as some dust-ups with Arsenal players defined the opening stages. However, as the contest went on, the German centerback transitioned back into his no-nonsense self. His communication with those around him (Mendy included) showed exactly why he deserved to be wearing the captain’s armband today.