Arsenal player ratings: Alexis Sanchez and Per Mertesacker shine in FA Cup Final

LB Nacho Monreal 7.0

While Monreal generally isn’t as active on the offensive end and mostly serves to be an option on the left flank to pass it to before sending a simple pass to Sanchez when he drifts inside (Monreal allows Sanchez to cut in), he did put in three crosses yesterday, including the one that led to Walcott’s goal. But the reason why Monreal is such a touted left-back is because he’s so good defensively.

Although Charles N’Zogbia deserves plenty of criticism for being the worst player on the pitch yesterday, he has Monreal to “thank” for his quiet outing. Throughout the season, Monreal has kept his flank clean, as he is one of the best in the business at closing out space. He’s as safe as they come on the outside, and his positioning and calm defending make up for his lack of pace.

Next: A top-class performance on defense