Arsenal Player Ratings After Narrow Win Over Everton: Midfield Steel Shines as Gyökeres Delivers
Bornheimer – Arsenal returned to the top of the Premier League standings after edging past Everton in a tense encounter early Sunday morning (December 21, 2025 WIB). The slim win keeps Arsenal firmly in control heading into the Christmas period. Although the margin was narrow, the performance reflected maturity, discipline, and control—traits of a side comfortable with the pressures of a title race.
Gyökeres’ Penalty Makes the Difference
The decisive moment arrived when a handball by Jake O’Brien gifted Arsenal a penalty. Viktor Gyökeres stepped up and converted calmly from the spot. In a match short on clear chances, that composed finish proved enough. From that point, Arsenal managed the game intelligently, refusing to retreat despite holding a fragile lead.
Second-Half Pressure Without Extra Goals
Rather than sitting deep, Arsenal pushed for a second goal after the break. Leandro Trossard and Martin Zubimendi both struck the woodwork, while Bukayo Saka missed a golden opportunity from close range. Everton threatened sporadically on the counter, yet Arsenal’s structure ensured the advantage remained intact until full-time.
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David Raya Commands the Back Line
David Raya delivered a commanding performance between the posts. Confident with the ball at his feet and assured under aerial pressure, Raya’s distribution helped Arsenal maintain rhythm. His composure added calm to moments when Everton attempted to raise the tempo.
Defensive Unit Shows Discipline
Jurrien Timber impressed with his ability to step into midfield and disrupt play, highlighted by a vital one-on-one tackle late in the match. William Saliba recovered well from an early error with crucial defensive interventions. Meanwhile, Piero Hincapie and Riccardo Calafiori contributed to a resilient defensive shape that secured a clean sheet.
Midfield Control Defines the Match
Arsenal’s midfield once again proved decisive. Declan Rice dominated key areas, delivering precise passes and providing the assist that led to the decisive penalty. Martin Ødegaard recovered from a quiet opening to influence the game creatively, while Zubimendi’s composure ensured balance and stability throughout.
Attacking Threat Despite Missed Chances
Although Arsenal scored only once, their attacking movement consistently troubled Everton. Saka’s versatility caused problems on both flanks, while Trossard’s intelligence between the lines opened spaces. Gyökeres, beyond his penalty, nearly added another with a powerful header, underlining his growing influence in crucial moments.
Substitutes Maintain Momentum
From the bench, Gabriel Jesus injected energy and link-up play, keeping Everton’s defense occupied. Gabriel Martinelli and Mikel Merino had limited time to make an impact, yet their presence helped Arsenal see out the result without losing control.
A Win Built on Maturity and Control
Ultimately, this was not Arsenal’s most fluent display, but it was one of their most professional. Defensive discipline, midfield authority, and a moment of calm from Gyökeres were enough to secure three vital points. As the festive period approaches, Arsenal’s ability to grind out results like this could prove decisive in the title race.
