Arsenal Player Ratings in Everton win: Gabriel Leads the Way as Gunners Go Joint Top
Arsenal secured another important three points with a deserved 2-0 victory over Everton at the Emirates, moving level with Manchester City at the top of the Premier League.
Ezri Konsa opened the scoring after just seven minutes before Gabriel Magalhães added a second with a powerful header in the 69th minute.
It was a strong, organised team performance from Mikel Arteta’s side, with some excellent individual displays along the way.
Here are our Arsenal player ratings.
Arsenal Starting XI Ratings
David Raya – 7/10
Another clean sheet and some important saves. His quick reaction to Ben White’s misplaced header prevented a potential equaliser, while he was called into action again in the second half. Did get penalised for holding the ball too long, conceding an unnecessary corner.
Ben White – 7/10
A mixed afternoon. Almost gifted Everton a goal with a poor header back to Raya, but made up for it with a lovely delivery for Gabriel’s second-half goal. Offered plenty going forward.
Ezri Konsa – 8/10
What a way to score your first Arsenal goal! Reacted quickest to put the Gunners ahead after Gabriel’s header struck the crossbar. Strong defensively too, looking increasingly comfortable in this Arsenal back line.
Gabriel Magalhães – 9/10
Our standout performer. Dominant defensively, strong in the challenges and capped his afternoon with a fantastic header to double Arsenal’s lead. Gave us a scare when he needed treatment, but thankfully carried on. An excellent performance from big Gabi.
Myles Lewis-Skelly – 8/10
A confident display from the youngster. Comfortable in possession, strong in his challenges and showed real composure when Everton pressed. Made a good case for more regular starts.
Declan Rice – 7/10
Another hardworking performance in midfield. His set-piece deliveries caused Everton problems throughout, and his partnership with Ødegaard helped Arsenal control the game.
Mikel Merino – 6/10
Got himself into some promising attacking positions but couldn’t make them count. Headed over from a dangerous free kick early in the second half. Worked hard, although his passing occasionally slowed the tempo.
Noni Madueke – 7/10
A real threat, particularly in the first half. Twice went close around the half-hour mark and gave Everton plenty to think about down the right. His pace and willingness to take defenders on were encouraging, particularly with Saka expected to be out for several weeks.
Martin Ødegaard – 8/10
At the heart of so much of Arsenal’s attacking play. Some lovely movement, clever passing and excellent link-up work. He did take a couple of opportunities to shoot and perhaps could have been more direct, but looked full of confidence.
Eberechi Eze – 6/10
Some bright moments, particularly before the break, when his movement and close control caused problems. Less influential as the match progressed and eventually replaced by Dowman.
Viktor Gyökeres – 7/10
Didn’t get on the scoresheet, but there was plenty to appreciate in his performance. Worked hard, held the ball up well and brought teammates into play with some clever touches. An encouraging afternoon despite not registering a shot.
Arsenal Substitutes Ratings
Bruno Guimarães – 7/10 (on for Merino, 66′)
Brought energy and confidence into midfield. Comfortable receiving the ball under pressure and wasn’t afraid to try something different.
Riccardo Calafiori – 6/10 (on for Lewis-Skelly, 66′)
A relatively quiet appearance, but helped maintain Arsenal’s defensive shape as Everton looked for a way back into the game.
Kai Havertz – 6/10 (on for Gyökeres, 66′)
Didn’t have too many opportunities to influence the attack. Took a heavy challenge from Tarkowski shortly after coming on, but kept working for the team.
Martín Zubimendi – 6/10 (on for Rice, 80′)
An eventful short appearance! Picked up a bloody nose following a challenge but continued, making an important late block to help preserve the clean sheet.
Max Dowman – 6/10 (on for Eze, 80′)
Another opportunity for the youngster to show his talent. Always exciting to see him involved.
Just Arsenal Player of the Match: Gabriel Magalhães – 9/10
A goal, a clean sheet and another commanding defensive performance. Hard to look beyond our Brazilian centre-back today.
Arsenal were disciplined, confident and dangerous going forward, and the result puts us right alongside Manchester City.