ARSENAL achieved a vital Premier League victory over Everton, courtesy of their central defensive pair’s goals.

The Gunners moved level on points with Manchester City at the top of the table following a 2-0 triumph at the Emirates, after Enzo Maresca’s side faced their first league loss of the season at Aston Villa.

The North London team took the lead just seven minutes into the match, thanks to a header from Ezri Konsa.

Mikel Arteta probably felt anxious during the second half when it seemed that Gabriel Magalhães might have picked up an injury—especially after William Saliba was lost to injury just months prior.

Fortunately, Gabriel managed to carry on and scored the decisive goal for Arsenal in the 68th minute.

But who made a significant impact for the home side? SunSport’s Simon Collings evaluates each of Arteta’s players:

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David Raya – 6

Struggled with an early corner—something unusual for him—and needed Gabriel’s intervention. Additionally, he was penalized for holding onto the ball for longer than six seconds. He redeemed himself with a strong save against Everton’s Thierno Barry.

Ben White – 7

Marked his 200th appearance with a beautiful assist in the second half. Solid throughout, with just one nervy moment when he underhit a headed back-pass, but Raya was there to cover for him.

Ezri Konsa – 8

Gave the Gunners the lead by netting his first goal for the club with a simple tap-in from a corner. A defensive stalwart throughout the match, he demonstrated great composure on the ball. He is a contender for Arsenal’s player of the season so far.

Gabriel Magalhaes – 9

Delivered several crucial blocks and clearances, including one off the line, proving why Arsenal fans consider him their defensive anchor. He scored his first goal of the season in the second half to secure the win. A dominant performance overall.

Myles Lewis-Skelly – 7

Displayed fantastic confidence while playing either in midfield or left-back. Although he was positioned defensively against the Toffees, he frequently joined the attack and created issues.

Declan Rice – 7

Dominated the midfield play and can look forward to a well-deserved break against Fleetwood Town on Tuesday. His set-pieces were excellent, and they could have made the victory larger for the Gunners.

Mikel Merino – 6

Marked his first Premier League start this season, remained mostly composed. However, he squandered a good opportunity just before half-time from a Rice free-kick. Failed to capitalize on his chance to shine and was quieter than he would have preferred.

Noni Madueke – 7

Exuding confidence and looking significantly improved compared to a month ago. He troubled his opponent and delivered some threatening crosses, coming close to scoring himself on various occasions.

Martin Odegaard – 7

Played a vital role in Arsenal’s best attacking moves and had some excellent combinations with Gyokeres. Nearly found the net with a skillful run and shot late in the first half.

Eberechi Eze – 6

Although he wasn’t as menacing as Madueke on the other side, he still performed well. He had moments of quality and almost set up Gyokeres with a couple of dangerous passes from the left.

Viktor Gyokeres – 6

Like Merino, the Swede made his first Premier League start of the season. He accidentally assisted Konsa’s goal but improved his hold-up play as the match progressed.

Subs

Bruno Guimaraes (Merino 68’) – 7

Made an immediate impact upon entering the match, assisting in creating Arsenal’s second goal. He was heavily involved and encouraged the team to play at a quicker pace.

Riccardo Calafiori (Lewis-Skelly 68’) – 6

Had a relaxed afternoon and was brought on for the final 22 minutes after Lewis-Skelly received a booking. He performed steadily.

Kai Havertz (Gyokeres 68’) – 6

Had a quiet appearance after coming on, appearing to be in some discomfort following a challenge from James Tarkowski shortly after his introduction.