Arsenal’s title push took a hit in the 2-1 loss to Bournemouth, with Declan Rice and Viktor Gyokeres among the few to emerge with credit on a frustrating afternoon
Arsenal were beaten 2-1 by Bournemouth at the Emirates, and too many performances fell below the level required. Eli Junior Kroupi’s opener and Alex Scott’s winner punished a disjointed display, with Gyokeres’ penalty not enough to rescue the hosts. External ratings broadly agreed on the main themes: Martin Zubimendi struggled, the front line misfired, and Gyokeres plus Rice were among Arsenal’s better performers.
David Raya - 5/10
Uncomfortable with the ball more often than usual and had a couple of moments that invited pressure onto Arsenal. He was not the main reason Arsenal lost, but he did little to settle a back line that never looked fully assured.
Ben White - 4/10
A difficult afternoon. Bournemouth repeatedly found space down his side, and he never really regained control after being exposed in the build-up to the opener. Looked vulnerable whenever Bournemouth broke quickly.
William Saliba - 5/10
Not as commanding as usual. There were one or two important interventions, but Bournemouth’s movement caused him problems and Arsenal never looked fully secure through the middle.
Gabriel - 6/10
Probably Arsenal’s steadiest defender. Made an important early block, helped win the penalty with his shot, and tried to hold the line together when others around him looked uncertain.
Myles Lewis-Skelly - 5.5/10
Some bright moments in possession and he was willing to carry the ball, but like most of Arsenal’s back line he became less convincing as the game wore on. Bournemouth found too many routes into the areas around him.
Martin Zubimendi - 4/10
One of Arsenal’s weaker performers. He was too safe on the ball without offering enough control, and Bournemouth’s press seemed to disrupt him throughout. This was not the sort of midfield display Arsenal needed in a game that demanded authority.
Declan Rice - 7/10
Arsenal’s best outfield player. Drove the team forward, created danger from set-pieces and looked the one midfielder capable of dragging the performance to a higher level. He could not do it on his own, but he at least carried some force and conviction.
Noni Madueke - 4.5/10
There were flashes of intent, including one or two moments when he got in behind, but the final product was not there. Too often the move slowed or broke down around him.
Kai Havertz - 4/10
Missed the best headed chance Arsenal created from open play and never really imposed himself in the role. This was a game that needed sharper movement and more control between the lines, and he provided too little of either.
Gabriel Martinelli - 4/10
A quiet display. He struggled to get involved, saw little of the ball in dangerous areas and was unable to stretch Bournemouth in the way Arsenal needed.
Viktor Gyokeres - 6.5/10
Arsenal’s main threat in attack. Took the penalty well, ran the channels with purpose and looked the likeliest player to force something, even if he missed a late chance. In a flat attacking display, he at least gave Bournemouth something to think about.
Substitutes
Leandro Trossard - 4.5/10
Brought energy but not enough quality. He worked back diligently at times, yet never gave Arsenal the control or incision they were searching for.
Max Dowman - 5.5/10
Tried to inject urgency and directness. Not everything came off, but he at least attempted to drive the game forward when Arsenal were running short of ideas.
Eberechi Eze - 5/10
A welcome return, though his influence was limited. He had a couple of neat touches and showed willingness to get on the ball, but the game never quite opened up for him.
Cristhian Mosquera - 5/10
Introduced with Arsenal chasing the game. Solid enough in brief spells, but without enough time to make a major impact.
Gabriel Jesus - 5/10
Lively in moments and nearly made a difference with a late header, but could not provide the equaliser Arsenal needed.