Arsenal lost two away games in a row to go nine points behind the league leaders Chelsea as they were beaten by the gallant Manchester City side who rallied from behind to beat Arsenal 2-1 in the match.
The visitors were in control in the first period but certainly took their foot off the pedal as they were hammered with an immediate equalizer just after the intermission, as City winger Leroy Sane showed composure to level matters in the game. Arsenal were unconvincing in the second half as the result proved in the end as City leapfrog them on the Premier League table.
We take a look at the player ratings for Arsenal against Manchester City….
GOALKEEPER
PETR CECH 6.0
The Veteran goalkeeper had a moderate game in between the sticks. Had nothing to do to prevent both goals as he was widely exposed defensively by his team.
DEFENDERS
HECTOR BELLERIN 6.0
The best man in Arsenal’s defence in the game. His forward run led to the goal as he linked up with Alexis in tandem with Walcott (goal scorer) for the opening goal. Was competitive throughout the game.
LAURENT KOSCIELNY 5.0
A passive game from the skipper as he could have done better to avoid both goals especially the second goal along with Nacho Monreal.
GABRIEL PAULISTA 5.5
The Brazilian had a better game than Koscielny but must improve to keep his place as Mustafi continues to recuperate from injury.
NACHO MONREAL 5.0
The Spaniard was good going forward especially in the first period but was poor defensively. Could have done better against Sterling for the winning goal.
MIDFIELDERS
FRANCIS COQUELIN 5.5
The French midfield player was good in closing down the opposition but lost steam as City intensified pressure. Was hauled off for Olivier Giroud in search of a goal.
GRANIT XHAKA 6.0
The midfielder was quiet at times in the game but had some good spells in possession.
MESUT OZIL 4-0
The playmaker did not turn up to this fixture as he failed to inspire the team in transition. Stay on in the game (not replaced) due to his player status.
ATTACKERS
ALEX IWOBI 3.0
The Nigerian was poor in the game and was substituted for Oxlade-Chamberlain. He could not defend or add bite to Arsenal’s fading attack.
ALEXIS SANCHEZ 6.5
Arsenal’s weapon as always so far in the season. Dropped deep to initiate play with real burst of energy but was lacking in support as City grew into the game.
THEO WALCOTT 6.0
The forward open the scoring with a precise finish but lacked enough to offer support to Sanchez in attack. Was unconvincing when set up by Ozil for an equalizer.
SUBSTITUTES
ALEX OXLADE-CHAMBERLAIN N/A
The forward came on to inject pace into Arsenal side but was undone by the City onslaught as he was substituted with a possible injury.
OLIVIER GIROUD N/A
The forward came into the game but could not make much impact as Arsenal was on the back foot as City wrapped up a second consecutive game with a 2-1 win.
MOHAMED ELNENY N/A
The Egyptian offered more body in midfield for Arsenal but could not find the final pass in City’s robust defence. Should have come on to replace Mesut Ozil.
Obiweluozo Martins