Arsenal hosted Southampton at the Emirates Stadium for a Premier League clash this afternoon.
Arsenal beat Southampton 3-1 on Saturday afternoon.
Mikel Arteta’s side were utterly dominant in the first half in terms of possession and territory, but could not find a way through the Saints’ dogged defensive effort.
The visitors then took the lead against the run of play after the break, before Kai Havertz, Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka all scored a goal each to secure the three points.
Jorginho is looking his age
Handed just his second Premier League start of the season so far, Jorginho was typically tidy in possession and helped to keep the Gunners on the ball. However, the 32-year-old midfield veteran’s lack of pace was exposed at times when Southampton sought to counter-attack.
He was replaced by Mikel Merino on the hour mark who came on to make his Premier League debut after the pace of the game ticked up a notch.
Arsenal fans still love Aaron Ramsdale
Aaron Ramsdale was a popular figure throughout his time at Arsenal but left in the most recent summer transfer window having lost his starting berth to David Raya last season. The manager’s decision to change his No. 1 has since been justified though, as Raya has been in spectacular form this season.
However, the returning shot-stopper was still given a warm welcome upon his return to North London. Ramsdale was reduced to tears by the reception he received from the Emirates Stadium faithful this afternoon.
Mikel Arteta’s patience with Gabriel Jesus tested
Gabriel Jesus has been in poor form recently and is currently enduring a lengthy barren run in front of goal. Meanwhile, Havertz is flying for the Gunners and is now firmly established as Arteta’s first choice to lead the line.
This was another difficult afternoon for the Brazilian, as he once again failed to find the back of the net and his decision-making was poor at times. Jesus talked Arteta into keeping him at the club this summer and the manager may now be regretting that decision.
Bukayo Saka is a demanding leader
One such poor Jesus decision was seen in the first half, when the forward had the opportunity to play Saka through on goal but neglected to play the pass. Saka was spotted reacting angrily to this, clearly demanding better from Jesus.
Saka has regularly captained Arsenal in usual skipper Martin Odegaard’s injury enforced absence. Whilst the Norwegian playmaker will reclaim the armband upon his return to action, Saka is now established as a leader within the squad.
Gabriel Martinelli showing signs of new life
Martinelli came on from the bench to grab the winning goal against the Saints. After having struggled to provide end product for so long, the Brazilian has now scored in back to back Premier League games.
Martinelli has benefitted from Odegaard’s injury, as Arsenal have had to change the way they play to accommodate for the midfielder’s absence. Arteta will be keen to see Martinelli maintain his improved form upon the captain’s return.
