While Chelsea FC’s return from the international break will be the topic of much conversation, at the end of the match, the points were shared amongst themselves and their North London rivals. Many will be disappointed with the end results, but there was much to be positive about. Let’s take a look at the player ratings.
Robert Sanchez – 5
While Sanchez looked comfortable for much of the match, he showed there are still glaring issues in his game. A horrible decision and pass, which led to Arsenal’s first goal was the catalyst for the comeback. Poor positioning in the second goal tied it up and left fans fuming. Sanchez clearly has much to improve upon and hopefully his patches will be mended soon,
Malo Gusto – 7
Gusto was back from his suspension and again showed why he was purchased. He was strong and composed in the back and looked dangerous while in attack. He looked very good for most of the match, but again, a slip up late in the second half paved the way for Arsenal to tie things up. Gusto was impressive for most of the match, but an important error will be hanging over his head.
Thiago Silva – 6.5
Silva was again solid and showed exactly what is to be expected of him. A few well timed tackles and aerial duels won and decent passing. While some might point to his age starting to become a factor, he most times choses to prove that it’s just a myth. Silva was decent today, but it seems his extremely high levels of playing days are behind him
Levi Colwill – 6
Again another solid performance from Colwill, but nothing to write home about. He made some good tackles and his passing was decent, but nothing stood out about his performance. It took him a while to get settled in the match, but he didn’t make too many mistakes either. Colwill’s performances are getting better, but the changing of his positions will hinder any massive progress.
Marc Cucurella – 8
Cucurella could have been the most solid performer on the pitch today. He locked up Saka for the majority of the game and got involved in a handful of attacking plays as well. He looked extremely comfortable back on the left side and was playing with some sort of fire in his belly. If he was looking to re-earn his spot in the position while Chilwell is out, I certainly think he did so today.
Moises Caicedo – 6
Defensively Caicedo played well. Locking down the midfield and winning balls back. His passing was intact, but it felt like he didn’t do much for Chelsea going forward. It could have been part of the game plan by Pochettino to fend off a fast counter by Arsenal, but Caicedo’s performance was fine. Nothing to praise and nothing to be overly critical about.
Enzo Fernandez – 7.5
Fernandez again played very well. Impressive going forward and maintained a cool head throughout the match. He continues to be one of the brightest spots in the Chelsea team and a conductor in the midfield. Enzo’s talent is undeniable and he looks more and more comfortable with every match. The best is yet to come with the young Argentine.
Cole Palmer – 7
Scoring the first of CFC’s goals off a well placed penalty kick, Palmer will have much to be proud of this match. Going forward he looked dangerous and made a few key passes. A few shots that could have been a smidge better, but other than that Palmer had a great match. He fell off a bit in the second half and was eventually replaced.
Conor Gallagher – 8
Gallagher continues to impress with his workrate and stamina. He was chasing down balls, winning duels, and helped in going forward and the final third. Selecting Gallagher for a match like this was a brilliant move by Pochettino. He worked incredibly hard before and after Arsenal’s goals. He continues to look to be one of the most improved players under Pochettino so far this season.
Mykhailo Mudryk – 7.5
Whether it was a fluke or not, a goal is a goal and Mudryk’s was something special. He played fast, attacking football and you can tell he is gaining more confidence with each match. Mudryk played direct and with pace with some great shots and key passes. It’s clear that he is an immense talent and he is showing more and more of it as the season progresses.
Raheem Sterling – 7
Sterling again played very well under Pochettino. He may still have something to prove to Gareth Southgate ahead of the Euro’s, but he looks to be accomplishing that in a blue shirt. He’s been dangerous when dribbling and looking to attack the box every time he touches the ball. Not on the scoresheet today, but not for lack of trying.
Nicholas Jackson – 6
Jackson came on just before the 70th minute when it all fell apart. The blame isn’t to be put on him, but he did little to improve his team’s chances at regaining their lead. One not very dangerous shot on net and not much else to write home about during Jackson’s cameo.
Reece James – N/A
Noni Madueke- N/A