Player Ratings: Arsenal 2-1 Leeds United

Arsenal earned a hard-fought 2-1 win over a tough Leeds United side, with Bruno Guimarães' second-half stunner securing the three points for the Gunners.

Arsenal fans could be forgiven for thinking their team might still be half-asleep at the start, as Leeds' relentless pressing ensured Mikel Arteta’s side were last to every opportunity for the entire first half.

Their persistence paid off early in the second half as James Justin scored with a lovely strike to give his side the lead. However, their lead didn’t last long as Riccardo Calafiori arrived out of nowhere to level things, before Guimarães sealed it by finishing off an exquisite team move.

David Raya - 7

The Spaniard had to make a few saves today against Leeds, including a close-range shot in the first half that could’ve easily snuck under his arm. Although he usually gets praise for his shot-stopping skills, today was all about his distribution, with one long-range pass in particular that wowed the crowd at the Emirates Stadium

Benjamin White - 6

White was his usual determined self in defence against Leeds, but was off the pace offensively, mistiming runs, being caught offside, and not quite being the progressive passer that can help unlock Bukayo Saka in the final third.

One or two more games and he’ll be back up-to-speed.

Ezri Konsa - 6.5

Konsa had a huge battle alongside Gabriel Magalhães today against Leeds’ Dominic Calvert-Lewin who was more than a handful. Despite the physical battle, Konsa remained poised throughout, proving once again how effortlessly he’s slotted into Arsenal’s back four.

Gabriel Magalhães - 6.5

Much like Konsa, Gabriel had a busy day with Calvert-Lewin, who was a handful to contain. However, if there’s one player who values a physical battle it’s the Brazilian. His standout moment came in the last minutes while he was protecting his box from pressure with some magnificent headers.

Ricardo Calafiori - 7.5

I’m not sure if calling Ricardo Calafiori a left back is a compliment or a disservice. On one hand, it’s amazing that a left back can get in the positions he does and consistently impact the game in the final third.

On the other hand, calling him a left back feels like you’re not explaining his unique role in this team. For a manager who loves control and discipline, he sure gives Calafiori a license to roam and cause plenty of damage, as Leeds found out with the leveller.

I’m not sure what Calafiori is, but whatever he is, it’s working.

Declan Rice - 7

He was a bit slow to get into the game, but I won’t hold it against him, as the same could be said about the majority of his teammates today. However, when he found his feet, Declan Rice reminded everyone why he’s been such a transformative player for this club.

Whether it was his dummy inside the box that left Leeds defenders in the dust or the exquisite back heel to set up Bruno Guimarães' winner, once Rice knocked off the cobwebs he was back to his imperious self.

Myles Lewis-Skelly - 6.5

The Englishman won a few clever fouls, but didn’t drive into the box as much as I expected. Not the worst showing for Lewis-Skelly, but he’ll be overshadowed by the man who came off the bench to earn the side the three points today.

Martin Ødegaard - 7

I actually forgot Ødegaard was on the pitch at one point. All credit to Leeds for stifling the Arsenal captain and keeping him away from their goal, but it didn’t bode well for the Gunners.

However, once the changes were made, the Norwegian started to use some of that passing wizardy that he’s become synonymous with. Once he’s found his rhythm and he’s able to orchestrate the action in front of him he becomes nearly unplayable.

He still should have scored though, as he miraculously failed to tap-in an opportunity from a couple yards out to double the Gunners' lead.

Bukayo Saka - 6.5

Not the kind of performance that will silence the naysayers, but one that you need from time to time. Leeds wingbacks were bombing down the sides, so this game needed a disciplined defensive performance from Arsenal's wide men and that’s what Saka gave.

Still should’ve scored to seal the victory though, as he failed to convert a one-on-one opportunity at the deal. 

Noni Madueke - 7

I wasn’t sure how to feel about Noni Madueke on the left wing, but he turned out to be Arteta's biggest threat. Whether it was because of his pace or his unpredictability when going forward, Madueke constantly gave Jayden Bogle trouble throughout the game.

The winger could truly be the option Arsenal need whilst Christos Tzolis is out.

Kai Havertz - 6

One of those Kai Havertz games where he doesn’t do anything wrong, but doesn’t do anything to stand out. The Germany international worked hard and held the ball up well, but didn’t provide much of a goal threat.

Substitutes:

Piero Hincapie - 6

Came on for Calafiori and shut down any offensive attacks coming from Leeds' right flank. A brilliant option to have when Calafiori needs a rest, especially when it comes to winning one-on-one duels.

Bruno Guimaraes - 7.5

Didn’t have the best outing against Brighton, but was the game-winner against Leeds today. Not only did he score his first goal at the Emirates Stadium, but the nutmeg leading up to the winner was fantastic.

Once we’ve found the correct balance and right combinations, I think the Brazil international will be a key part of the most diverse midfield in Europe.

Jurriën Timber - 6

Much like Hincapie, the Dutchman was brought on to stop Leeds wingbacks from causing so much damage. It’s safe to say that he fulfilled his role wonderfully, as they didn’t provide any threat once he was on the pitch.

Good to see him get some minutes as he finds his way back to match fitness.

Viktor Gyökeres - 6.5

I really liked what I saw from Viktor Gyökeres when he came on. He was a willing runner and actually linked up with the players around him better than I’ve seen this season. I’d like to see more of this in the future if he wants to challenge to be in the starting line-up.

Although the Gunners didn’t score enough to retain the top spot in the Premier League through goal difference, they’re now on equal points with Manchester City, who travel to Anfield to play Liverpool next.