Arsenal ratings: Declan Rice comes out on top in battle with Rodri but Odegaard struggles to open up Man City

8 months ago 63

DECLAN RICE was Arsenal’s gritty hero as they clung on for a 0-0 draw in Sunday’s tame top-three clash.

The England midfielder again showed he is worth all his £105million summer fee by edging his duel with outstanding counterpart Rodri in midfield.

Meanwhile, Ben White again showed he could be a big miss for England as the Gunners stood firm in defence.

But there were some question marks further forward for Mikel Arteta‘s men, especially as playmaker Martin Odegaard was kept quiet.

Here’s how Arsenal rated as they dug in for a point at the Etihad.

David Raya – 6

Had an incredibly quiet afternoon.

Annoyed the home crowd in what they saw as time wasting and he was finally booked for doing so in the 79th minute.

Ben White – 8

Back after his short break in Dubai and looked as though it had done him some good – while some of the other players who had been on international duty looked tired.

William Saliba – 7

Rarely put a foot wrong. Some key blocks and tackles and held firm under the late pressure.

Gabriel Magalhaes – 7

Cracking battle with Erling Haaland and generally came out the winner. Class.

Jakub Kiwior – 7

Has featured at left-back during Arsenal’s decent recent run and was once again solid and did a good job against Bernardo Silva.

Martin Odegaard – 6

Not one of his greatest games as he struggled to open up City’s defence.

Jorginho – 7

Did OK in central midfield but was subbed as Arteta wanted a bit more energy.

Declan Rice – 8

Impressive for Arsenal and enjoyed his fascinating battle with City counterpart Rodri. He came out the better of the two.

Bukayo Saka tangles with Kevin De Bruyne but was often crowded out[/caption]

Bukayo Saka – 6

Struggled to find much space in the first half but set up a great chance for Jesus before hobbling off injured.

Kai Havertz – 5

Had an early collision with keeper Ortega when he could have done a lot better. Had little service, though. 5

Gabriel Jesus – 6

The former City striker missed a golden chance at the start of the second half. Jeered by some City fans – and applauded by others- when subbed for Trossard.