Ezri Konsa delivered another assured performance for Arsenal last night as the Gunners beat Napoli in the Champions League at the home of the Italian side.
Starting alongside Gabriel at the heart of Arsenal’s defence, the Englishman delivered an assured performance against the Italians, and he has made fans forget that William Saliba has not played for Arsenal this season.
Arsenal focused on signing quality players in the last window, as they already have one of the strongest squads in European football and have to be careful about who they bring in now.
They signed Konsa after he won the Europa League at Aston Villa and helped England reach the semi-final of the World Cup, and he has been incredible for their team.
The defender is one of the finest in the Premier League and did not look out of place on his debut for the Gunners in Europe, producing an impressive display in Naples.
Konsa makes an immediate impression
Konsa looked comfortable alongside Gabriel throughout the match, providing Arsenal with another assured option in central defence.
His physical presence and pace were particularly important against Napoli, while his performance suggested that Arsenal have strengthened an already impressive squad with a defender capable of competing at the highest level.
As reported by Standard Sport, the defender received a 9/10 rating for his performance in the match, with the publication adding:
“What a signing. Dominant physically, bullying Hojlund all night, and had the pace to cover across the back line too. Looked a threat in the Napoli box as well.”
Defender earns further praise
The assessment highlights the qualities Konsa brought to the Arsenal defence, particularly his physical strength, pace and ability to cover across the back line.
His performance also offered encouragement to the Gunners, who will need their strongest players to remain consistent as they compete in Europe and domestically.
Konsa has made an excellent first impression in European competition, and his display against Napoli will give Arsenal further confidence in their decision to bring him into the squad.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
ADMIN COMMENT
So here are some simple rules which I must insist commenters follow….
You agree not to give any personal abuse to other Arsenal fans. Everyone is allowed to hold their own opinions even if you disagree with them. It COSTS NOTHING TO BE POLITE TO OTHER ARSENAL FANS.
CALLING ALL ARSENAL FANS! Anyone who would like to contribute an Article or Video opinion piece on JustArsenal, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us through this link…
Interesting dilemma , but a pleasant one for Arteta when Saliba fully recovers?
Grandad,
We might have to go 3 at the back. 😂👍
If he recovers to his former level.
This will be a serious question – long term injuries often seem to have lagging effects on players. Luckily Konsa is proving to be exceptional cover so we can bring Saliba back slowly.
Still early but that may end up being the brilliance of biting the bullet and paying a high price to bring in Konsa. That is, if Saliba isn’t able to return to his old self (remember this isn’t his first semi-long term back problem) then we not only have a very capable replacement for him now but also for the future with a young backup in Mosquera.
With potentially over 60 games a season they will all be needed and rotated…presuming no more injuries
5 competitive matches . 2 main defenders out all season so far and only 1 goal conceded
I feel like if we can play this way till Xmas / Jan and get a strong lead then the boys will really start to open up re attacking
Amazing stat of 26 shots but only 1 goal still keeps giving the opposition a chance though and we are riding our luck a little therefore.
A keep saying Arteta is a defensive coach as opposed to an attacking one, like say a Mauricio Pochettino.
We seems to have no problem signing defenders and am talking quality ones., but struggles to get quality attacking options across the lines
Konsa’s sliding forceful well timed interception tackle on Rogers still the stand out. Rogers turned over like an accident happening. Still Konsa has to score set piece goals or contribute to be in the level of Magalhaes. Is it because of him we’re not scoring headers or Jover new tactics or opposition readiness or new rules?
Amba,
Just a comment regards you questioning Konsa, for maybe being responsible for our lack of goals from corners.
Can I just say that apart from the odd goal, Saliba isn’t as potent as Gabriel either.
You’re thoughts?. 👍
Looks sharp and adapted well, very smart buy!
Early days but so far Konsa has been magnificient.
Agree Websurfer, playing like he really wants to keep the job.