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

Kepa Arrizabalaga (Goalkeeper): 6.5/10

Kepa Arrizabalaga gave up the goal, but that’s not to say it was his fault. The “C-team” defense let the Spaniard down as it failed to pick up Granit Xhaka on a corner. The Swiss midfielder placed a brilliant header onto the far left side of goal with pace, giving Arrizabalaga no chance. The absence of goal line technology may have bailed out Chelsea’s back-up keeper (although the build-up looked offsides) and saved him from conceding a second. Nothing special from Arrizabalaga.

Baba Rahman (Left wingback): 6/10

Baba Rahman scuffed a brilliant opportunity just minutes after coming on. He got into good attacking positions and helped out when necessary in defense.

N’Golo Kante (Central midfielder): 7.5/10

N’Golo Kante looked more comfortable on the ball than he perhaps ever has before. The Frenchman’s distribution (as captain, no less) was on point as he worked tirelessly to send the Blues on the counterattack in the late stages of the game. Kante’s smile and style are back.

Ross Barkley (Attacking midfielder): 5/10

I cannot remember one thing Ross Barkley did during his time on the pitch aside from a few forward passes in the final third. Unfair to give him a 5/10 based on that reasoning? Perhaps. Justified given his overall lack of production? Yes.

Michy Batshuayi (Striker): 7.5/10

Michy Batshuayi looked surprisingly good against Arsenal. He and Abraham made for a great striker pairing—miscommunication aside—who constantly freed up space for the other to run into. The selfishness of both at times probably prevented Abraham from getting a second and Batshuayi from getting on the scoresheet, but that’s not to say the chances were not present. The Belgian was one of the bright spots during the second half as he looks to make the most out of the few opportunities he has remaining wearing the Chelsea badge.

Jake Clarke-Salter (Centerback): ?/10

Jake Clarke-Salter came on in the 86′ to relieve Chalobah of his duties. The Blues went on to win the game, so I guess you could say Clarke-Salter’s brief cameo can be considered a success.

What would you rate each player? Let us know in the comments or on Twitter!