Chelsea Player Ratings vs Arsenal: Former Gunners Star Steals the Show

After a reluctant pre-match handshake, Jose Mourinho once again got the better of his nemesis Arsene Wenger in what was a self-destructive performance from Arsenal. Cesc Fabregas was the star performer for the Blues as his Spanish counterpart Santi Cazorla headed off for an early shower in a game which saw Arsenal reduced to 9 men after Gabriel had been dismissed at the stroke of half time.

Arsenal centre-back Gabriel Paulista hit the self-destruct button after provocation from Diego Costa caused the Brazilian to lash out at the Chelsea man. Kurt Zouma struck early in the second half while Eden Hazard sealed Chelsea’s second win of the season with a late goal after Santi Cazorla was shown a second yellow for a stupid challenge on Cesc Fabregas.

Let’s see how Jose Mourinho’s men fared in the first big London derby of the season.

Asmir Begovic – 6.5

Denied Aaron Ramsey in the dying seconds, but had little to be worried about throughout the game.

Branislav Ivanovic – 6.5

Still nowhere near his best gave away needless set pieces in advanced positions, but an improvement on his earlier showings this season.

Kurt Zouma – 8

An excellent challenge to deny Theo Walcott in the first half, and a great goal to set Chelsea on their way. Could become a top defender for the Blues in the future.

Gary Cahill – 7

Dealt well with Walcott’s express pace and forged a solid partnership with Zouma.

Cesar Azpilicueta – 7

Rarely troubled defensively except for one or two forward surges from Bellerin, and gave Chelsea the impetus down the left flank in an attacking sense.

Nemanja Matic – 6.5

Coquelin made a mockery of Matic at times, which is something the Serbian wouldn’t be too pleased about, but kept things ticking nicely for Chelsea in the centre of the park.

Cesc Fabregas – 8.5

A superb performance from the Spaniard. Dictated play from his deeper role and set up Zouma’s goal with an inviting freekick.

Pedro – 7

Added energy and attacking fluidity but missed his shooting boots today. Would prove to be a great signing.

Oscar – 6.5

Good performance overall, particularly with his defensive work in the first half. Booked.

Eden Hazard – 7.5

Deflected goal, not that anybody’s complaining. Created more chances than he has done so far this season. A much better performance from the Belgian.

Diego Costa – 7

Slapped Laurent Koscielny and then went shoulder-to-shoulder with the Frenchman, and eventually got his defensive partner Gabriel sent off with relentless provocation. On the football front, he was lively and used his physical strength to the fullest. But the striker could face retrospective action for his behavior.

Substitutes

Ramires (Oscar 69′) – 6

Remy (Costa 81′)

Mikel (Fabregas 90′)