Arsenal returned to winning ways in the Premier League with a narrow 1-0 victory over Chelsea at Emirates Stadium, thanks to a first-half header from Mikel Merino. The win restores their four-point cushion over third-placed Nottingham Forest and keeps them firmly in second spot.
The Gunners came into this London derby having failed to win any of their last three league games. But Mikel Arteta’s team started brightly, creating early chances for Leandro Trossard, Declan Rice, and Gabriel Martinelli.
The breakthrough came midway through the first half. Martin Odegaard delivered a well-placed corner, and Merino rose highest to glance his header beyond Robert Sanchez and into the far corner. It was the Spaniard’s fourth goal in seven games, underlining his growing influence since stepping into the striker role.
Arsenal managed the second half well, although it became a scrappy affair. Clear chances were few and far between for both sides. Merino went close to adding a second goal, but Sanchez produced a smart save to keep Chelsea in the game.
Here’s how Arsenal’s players rated on the day:
Goalkeeper & Defence
David Raya (7/10)
Got away with a nervy moment when Marc Cucurella’s shot slipped through him but showed his usual composure otherwise.
Jurrien Timber (8.2/10)
Energetic down the right, defended strongly and didn’t give Christopher Nkunku much space. A solid outing.
William Saliba (7.3/10)
Looked assured at the back and made a crucial tackle on Pedro Neto to stop a dangerous Chelsea attack.
Gabriel Magalhaes (7/10)
Brought the ball out from defence confidently and helped neutralise Enzo Fernandez when needed.
Myles Lewis-Skelly (7.3/10)
Preferred over Riccardo Calafiori and delivered a steady performance. Worked tirelessly in defence and joined up with England duties in good form.
Midfield
Thomas Partey (7,5/10)
Shielded the defence well and was neat in possession, keeping Arsenal’s midfield organised.
Declan Rice (8/10)
Another tireless display in the centre of the park. Strong in tackles and always available to support both defence and attack.
Martin Odegaard (6.5/10)
Supplied the corner for Merino’s goal but still hasn’t found his best form in the final third. Needs to offer more creativity.
Attack
Leandro Trossard (6/10)
Got into some good positions but wasted a few clear chances in the first half. End product wasn’t sharp enough.
Mikel Merino (7,5/10)
Took his goal brilliantly with a precise header and worked hard throughout the match. Adapted well to the striker’s role.
Gabriel Martinelli (6/10)
Made his first start since injury and looked dangerous at times, especially with his direct running. However, he faded after the break.
A gritty performance from Arsenal, with Merino and Rice leading the way, keeps their title hopes alive as the season enters its final stretch.
