Arsenal and Everton face off in what could be a pretty open and an end to end game as both teams have some pretty talented players. Ahead of the game at Emirates, we take a look at three key battles that could potentially decide the outcome.
#3 Mesut Ozil vs Idrissa Gueye
After initial struggles under the tutelage of Unai Emery, Mesut Ozil is slowly regaining his form playing either through the right flank or through the centre. Ozil’s vision and passing range would be the primary supply line for Arsenal’s forwards.
However, Everton are likely to ask their defensive midfielder Idrissa Gueye to closely mark Ozil. Gueye is tenacious, disciplined and capable of neutralizing the German international’s creative nous. He tackled thrice and intercepted twice in Everton’s 3-1 loss to West Ham United last week.
Ozil came on as a substitute in Arsenal’s Europa League victory against Vorskla. He scored once and even delivered a key pass, which clearly demonstrates that he is gradually adapting to Emery’s demands. The duel between these two players could have a major impact in the eventual outcome of the match.
#2 Richarlison vs Hector Bellerin
Richarlison had settled well at Everton but he was sent off in their match against AFC Bournemouth. The Brazilian winger possesses flair and the slick dribbling skills. However, he seems to have improved his efficiency too and would certainly be important in Everton’s season going ahead.
Richarlison will be up against Hector Bellerin who will feature as the right-back in this contest. Bellerin’s defensive awareness would be tested by the 21-year-old in the upcoming match. The Spaniard fullback had cleared the ball thrice and tackled once in Arsenal’s Premier League victory against Newcastle United. He likes to make forays forward but could be pegged back by Richarlison’s movements from that flank.
#1 Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang vs Mason Holgate
Pierre Emerick Aubameyang has scored only once in five Premier League matches so far. The Gabon international is usually very lethal and prolific in front of the goal, but he has missed some easy chances that have dented his goal-scoring record in this campaign so far.
Aubameyang’s pace and movements in and around the penalty box could be difficult to handle for Everton’s backline. Mason Holgate will be an integral defender at the centre and hence he would be responsible for containing Aubameyang’s impact on the game too.
Holgate had tackled and intercepted once, whilst cleared the ball twice in the match against West Ham. Meanwhile, Aubameyang had completed one dribble and taken two shots on target against the Magpies too. The former Borrusia Dortmund forward could be the key to converting chances into goals in the final third.
Holgate could be tasked to ensure that Aubameyang’s impact is reduced in the match.
