Because of him we had a control in midfield that we rarely see with Xhaka. United couldn't get near him especially in the first half where he was very press resistant.
Dropping a shoulder to lose his man, driving forward with the ball when he needed to (something Xhaka can't do) in order to force united players to commit to a challenge before releasing the ball to Saka or Willian.
Special mentions to Willian, Auba, Laca and Partey. I thought Auba's all round game was better today, great penalty and was more involved in the build up as was Lacazette. Willian had his best game in an Arsenal shirt today for me. As for Partey what can I say, gave us the presence we've been starving in midfield for so many years.
All in all good day at Old Trashford 👏👏
Elneny, man of the match for me!
posted on 1/11/20
👏👏 .- totally agree MOTM Elneny for keeping the ball going forward
posted on 1/11/20
He was excellent. Surprising really considering how all the expert fans had crucifed Arteta for selecting him, but I guess they can't always be right.
And the less we see of Xhaka the better as far as I'm concerned. I know a lot of people have been bigging him up because he recovered from being a complete pariah to being... not quite one, but I still think we always play a lot worse with him in the team.
posted on 1/11/20
Total agree - he slows our game down and can’t see what he actually brings to the team - Elneny is limited but he is tidy and quicker and was able to slip his way forward and achieve 2 on 1s - I was pleasantly surprised
posted on 1/11/20
He was brilliant but Partey was by far the best player on the pitch today. What a performance though from us.
posted on 1/11/20
It’s down to the overall set up especially his partner. Xhaka whilst he may be good on the ball, is too slow and causes issues. Partey is the complete opposite whilst also being much better on the ball. This helps Elneny.
posted on 1/11/20
Xhaka is slow because he dwells on the ball. His pass completion especially under pressure is very poor for a top team. Actually Xhaka has the attributes to a good CB because he is disciplined. But really has NEVER been good enough CM for a top team in the premier league.
posted on 1/11/20
After Xhaka senselessly strayed onto the goal line vs Leicester and caused Laca's goal to be disallowed, I would rather we gamble with Elneny for now. He has been consistently decent and hardworking since his return, and clearly combines very well with Partey.