3 players that must improve after Arsenal’s loss to Manchester City

1. David Luiz

I’m writing this early in the morning so I don’t want it to put me in a bad mood. But just thinking about Luiz’s absolute whitewash of a show last night boils my blood. He was dreadful and I’ve not seen a cameo that bad until, well… David Luiz.

The Brazil international came on in the first half to replace the injured Pablo Mari. Instantly he looked shaky, but I thought nothing of it. I thought I’ll give him a few minutes, because everybody started off rusty so to come on as a sub was bound to take some time getting used to. I couldn’t be more wrong.

It turns out that Luiz didn’t grow into the game at all, instead he let the game grow into him. He was at fault for the first goal, as a failed clearance from the Brazil international saw Raheem Sterling one on one without Bernd Leno (who was exceptional, by the way). The England international, despite Leno proving strong earlier in the match, was never going to miss.

More from Arsenal FC

• Gunners do just enough to claim victory in season opener
• Arsenal: We bottled it but I don’t care
• Arsenal complete record deal for Declan Rice
• Arsenal splurges on transfers as they aim to collect silverware
• Arsenal complete the signing of Kai Havertz

Then, he gave away a penalty and received a red card in the second half. His reckless challenge on Riyad Mahrez pretty much secured the three points for Manchester City, and secured the end of what was a dreadful Luiz performance. He really had no positives to take away from the Premier League return.

If I know Arteta like I think I do, then he’s not going to stand for this. Even his shortened coming together with Pep Guardiola at the full-time whistle signified that he had some stern words to say to a particular someone, and it’s not rocket science to guess who.

There are no two ways about it, if the clause to keep Luiz at Arsenal for a further year is to be triggered, he must improve. Arsenal can’t afford to keep donkeys like him at the club for any longer than they need to, since he is simply hindering any progress.

Bring on William Saliba.

Which player’s performance stuck out the most to you?