Saliba, Jesus and title benefit – Arsenal winners and losers after Europa exit
William Saliba, Gabriel Jesus and the title race feature in Arsenal’s winners and losers after Sporting CP eliminated the Gunners from the Europa League.
Winners
Crystal Palace
Vieira is in a difficult position having not won a single league game in 2023 and a poor attacking record. Yet last night’s tiring clash will certainly give the Eagles more impetus.
Manchester United
The title race
This gives Arsenal a focused approach to the test of their season. With a couple of injuries in the game too, it provides a clear indication of the risks of using first-team stars as a second priority.
It also means Arsenal’s title clash with Manchester City will allow two days extra rest with their Premier League game with Southampton now on the Friday before instead of Sunday.
Losers
Arsenal injuries
Rob Holding
There were some good moments from Rob Holding in the game but the primary conclusion from his display was the demonstration of the gap between him and Saliba. He very well might be starting this weekend if the Frenchman is not fit to start.
His distribution, composure and timing all came under scrutiny and the likes of Wilfred Zaha are sure to be emboldened facing the centre half over Saliba.
Gabriel Jesus
Whilst being robbed of those approximate 15 or so minutes, he looked sharp and came close to scoring on a couple of occasions. As he builds back to full fitness he is sure to be vital in the Gunners’ remaining eleven games of the season.
