Arsenal have extended their lead at the top of the Premier League to nine points this afternoon, after securing a 3-0 win over Sunderland at the Emirates Stadium.
Goals from Martin Zubimendi and a double from substitute Viktor Gyokeres secured all three points for Mikel Arteta’s men, subsequently making it four wins in a row across all competitions.
The Gunners produced far from a vintage display in North London, but their clinical nature in front of goal highlights their title credentials for the 2025/26 campaign.
Arteta’s men managed to net their three goals despite registering just four shots on target, with the side managing to cruise to victory despite looking somewhat below their best.
However, despite the needed victory, numerous players who started the encounter struggled to deliver, which could lead to questions about their continued selection.
Arsenal’s poor performers against Sunderland
Winger Noni Madueke has been the man to fill the void vacated by the injured Bukayo Saka in recent weeks, but he’s ultimately struggled to fill the boots of his compatriot.
During his hour showing at the Emirates this afternoon, the 23-year-old attempted three crosses into the box, but was unable to find a teammate with any of his efforts.
He also failed to complete any of the dribbles he attempted in North London, subsequently showcasing his inability to impress within the final third.
However, Madueke wasn’t alone in failing to deliver on home soil, with centre-back William Saliba also struggling to meet the demands despite the side claiming all three points
The Frenchman featured for 90 minutes this afternoon but was dominated by Bryan Brobbey, subsequently only managing to win 50% of the duels that he entered in the air or on the ground.
He failed to make any blocks from any of the opposition shots, whilst committing two fouls, which resulted in the youngster picking up a rare yellow card.
The Arsenal star who needs to be dropped after Sunderland
Securing all three points is undoubtedly the main aim for Arteta and Arsenal at this stage of the season, but there’s no denying themanager will be disappointed with a handful of his players today.
The Spaniard has implemented a high bar for his first-team players in recent years, as he aims to end the club’s generational wait for a Premier League title.
He’s often been backed by the Gunners board in his quest at the Emirates, as seen by the £200m funding handed his way during the recent summer transfer window.