Arsenal Player Ratings: Trossard Sparks Gunners to Life After International Break, While Saka Struggles to Shine

LEANDRO TROSSARD propelled Arsenal to the top of the table with a 1-0 victory over Fulham.

The Belgian winger was perfectly positioned to convert Gabriel’s flick-on from a corner during the second half.

Leandro Trossard’s goal returned Arsenal to the top of the leagueCredit: Getty Trossard found himself in the right place at the right timeCredit: Reuters

An Arsenal performance that felt lackluster after the international break threatened to cost them vital points during their visit to the west.

However, the team's focus on capitalizing on set pieces paid off once again.

Arsenal moved three points clear at the top of the Premier League table, aware that Liverpool must defeat Manchester United to close that gap.

Here’s how SunSport’s Andy Dillon rated the Gunners:

David Raya – 6

Alert enough to tip over an ambitious cross-shot from Fulham’s rising star Josh King.

At least the Arsenal keeper was attentive, unlike some of his defenders. The second half was relatively quiet, with no significant saves required despite Fulham's pressure.

Jurien Timber – 6

Delivered an impressive diagonal ball to Trossard, who set up Calafiori for a goal that was ruled out for offside in the first half.

His evening became more challenging once Fulham introduced record signing Kevin, putting him under pressure down the left.

William Saliba – 6

His aerial strength was crucial in the second half as the home side sought an equalizer.

He was a steady presence throughout, especially in the first half when his partner Gabriel seemed shaky.

Gabriel – 6

Looked like someone who had just returned from Korea in the last two weeks. Twice in quick succession, he made errors with misplaced or underhit passes that allowed Fulham to create real threats.

He then rose spectacularly to provide the flick-on for Trossard's goal. A moment of redemption.

Riccardo Calafiori – 7

The driving force behind Arsenal’s sluggish first half. Had a brilliant goal disallowed for offside and came close with a stylish right-foot volley, demonstrating the energy and determination his teammates lacked.

He played two full matches during the international break but somehow maintained his energy levels.

Eberechi Eze – 5

Failed to make an impact against Fulham and lasted just under an hour. Substituted to possibly conserve his legs for Tuesday’s trip to the .

He scored in midweek in Latvia, but luck was not on his side in west London.

Martin Zubimendi – 6

On a day when no Arsenal player truly stood out, the summer signing put in a solid performance and contributed when it mattered most.

He did what was necessary, and a clean sheet is commendable.

Declan Rice – 6

Played further forward but was often required to make those elegant emergency tackles for which he is known as Fulham threatened.

Still showing signs of fatigue, although his forward passing was precise. After Trossard’s goal, he quickly began directing his teammates. No resting on their laurels.

Bukayo Saka – 5

Bukayo Saka was not at his best against FulhamCredit: Reuters

Did not perform at his best as captain in Odegaard’s absence. He was at the center of controversy when brought down by Fulham's substitute Kevin just moments after the Brazilian, the club's record signing, entered the game, as he fell inside the box after being challenged.

After lengthy delays, referee Anthony Taylor correctly reversed his decision to award a penalty.

Victor Gyokeres – 6

Had two excellent shots brilliantly saved by the former Arsenal keeper.

However, he still struggled to create sustained danger up front and is yet to fully utilize his physicality as he adapts to the demanding nature of the Premier League.

Leonardo Trossard – 7