Better than Trossard: Arsenal ace who won 14 duels was absolutely “everywhere” vs Burnley
Arsenal bounced back to winning form in the Premier League with a determined performance against Burnley at the Emirates Stadium.
Despite Burnley’s valiant efforts, Mikel Arteta’s team emerged as 3-1 victors.
Following their recent defeat to Newcastle United, Arsenal secured three crucial points today, with goals from Leandro Trossard, William Saliba, and Oleksandr Zinchenko.
This win brings them level on points with league leaders Manchester City, who are set to face Chelsea tomorrow.
Due to Gabriel Jesus’ absence in the past three Premier League fixtures due to a hamstring injury, Eddie Nketiah took up the forward position but was substituted today after a lackluster performance against the Magpies. Trossard was chosen as his replacement.
Leandro Trossard’s contribution against Burnley was significant. His dynamism played a crucial role in breaking through Burnley’s disciplined defense.
Despite Burnley stifling Arsenal’s attacks in the first half, Trossard scored a brave header just before halftime and provided a fine assist for Saliba’s goal before the hour mark.
Trossard has now accumulated six goals and two assists in seven starting appearances across all competitions this season. In addition to hitting the woodwork, he made 51 touches, completed 79% of his passes, created two key passes, and won four duels.
In post-match ratings, Arsenal correspondent Kaya Kaynak gave Trossard an 8/10, highlighting his ability to bring out the best in his teammates and praising his partnership with Saka.
While Trossard had a stellar showing, the standout performer of the night was Zinchenko.
The Ukrainian, who joined Arsenal from Manchester City for £32m last year, showcased all-encompassing contributions to the team’s success.
Despite not being a typical trademark display, the victory highlighted Arsenal’s ability to get the job done, with Zinchenko being a key driving force.
Described as “everywhere” by Gunners reporter Connor Humm, the left-back, earning £150k-per-week, scored a stunning goal to seal the win after Saliba restored the lead in the second half.
Oleksandr Zinchenko for Arsenal vs. Burnley:
◉ Most touches (116)
◉ Most passes in final third (45)
◉ Most final third entries (17)
◉ Most duels won (14)
◉ Most aerial duels won (7)
◉ Most tackles (5)
Wow. 👏 pic.twitter.com/xyN6qee3Ij— Squawka (@Squawka) November 11, 2023
Zinchenko’s impact extended far beyond his goal-scoring prowess, as evidenced by his remarkable statistics. He impressively took 116 touches, completed 87% of his passes, won an astounding 14 duels, delivered two key passes, successfully executed all seven of his long ball attempts, and contributed with a substantial five tackles.
Kaynak showered Trossard with praise, echoing similar sentiments for Zinchenko, noting, ‘One superb flick to free space for Bukayo Saka in the first half. Showed equally superb technique when firing home Arsenal’s third.’
Despite Burnley’s decent performance, their fate was sealed in defeat. Zinchenko’s omnipresence proved crucial, and without his contributions at Arteta’s disposal, the chances of success for Arsenal would have undoubtedly diminished.
Zinchenko’s dynamic and talismanic performance was a formidable show of strength, serving as a reminder to the Premier League of his exceptional talent.
Better than Trossard: Arsenal ace who won 14 duels was absolutely “everywhere” vs Burnley