Gabriel Gudmundsson dire, Anton Stach a creative force – Leeds player ratings v Arsenal
Leeds United were ripped to shreds as Daniel Farke’s side visited the Emirates Stadium to face Arsenal in their second Premier League game.
The Whites had stolen all three points in their league opener against Everton, but that Lukas Nmecha penalty seems an age ago now after conceding four unanswered goals on Saturday, 23 August.
While Viktor Gyokeres left the Sky Sports studio in shock in the first half, the new signing eventually powered two efforts past Lucas Perri, and so did Jurrien Timber twice, while Bukayo Saka bagged once.
It was an evening of learning for the newly promoted side, who were sent packing back to Elland Road with their tails between their legs after a 5-0 loss.
Lucas Perri – 2
Absolutely peppered by several players, struggling to adapt to the pace and strength of the Premier League.
Jayden Bogle (Off for Byram 83′) – 3
It was always going to be a difficult evening, having picked up a caution just nine minutes into proceedings.
Joe Rodon – 4
Lost far too many duels, picked up a couple of fouls, and was probably lucky to avoid a booking.
Pascal Struijk – 5
Came very close to scoring for Leeds, seeing his header well saved by David Raya. Won many of his duels, but could not stop any of Arsenal’s goals.
Gabriel Gudmundsson – 1
Dreadful day. Full-back was tormented all game because, even after Saka hobbled off, he was made to look foolish by 15-year-old Max Dowman.
Bukayo Saka and Max Dowman cause chaos down Leeds left
Ilia Gruev – 4
The injured Ethan Ampadu likely wouldn’t have been able to do much more than the Bulgarian, but it was still a disappointing display from the midfielder.
Ao Tanaka – 3
Far from the Japanese international’s best performance in Leeds colours. Never really fit into the lineup, not knowing his role as the Whites were without possession for so long.
Anton Stach – 6 – Man of the Match
Best of a bad bunch. Despite all of Arsenal’s dominance, the German created multiple chances for his teammates, who were unable to latch onto the final ball away from home. Penalty meant nothing by the end.
Dan James (Off for Aaronson 66′) – 3
Made a couple of good runs, but without service into his feet or over the top, the Welshman was rendered pretty useless at both ends of the pitch.
Leeds United attack completely absent
Willy Gnonto – 4
Always stayed positive, running and jumping into challenges, but he offered little else in the final third.
Joel Piroe (Off for Nmecha 58′) – 2
Offered nothing through the middle, taking just a handful of touches against the Gunners.
Substitutes
Lukas Nmecha (On for Piroe 58′) – 5
Worked harder than Piroe, and was far brighter in the final 30 minutes.
Sean Longstaff (On for Tanaka 58′) – 3
Lost far too many duels, failing to make a desired impact.
Brenden Aaronson (On for James 66′) – 5
While he failed to make a dent on the score, his energy was much-needed, and he will likely see him start next weekend.
Noah Okafor (On for Gnonto 66′) – 4
Offered very little in the final third.
Sam Byram (On for Bogle 83′) – N/A