Premier League 2018/19: Arsenal vs Chelsea

Arsenal halved the gap between themselves and London rivals Chelsea as they beat the Blues 2-0. Kicking off late at the Emirates Stadium, Arsenal dominated their fellow top-four contenders to take all three points. It was a much-needed win Unai Emerys side, given their recent poor form and all the controversy emanating from the boardroom. Goals from Alexandre Lacazette and Laurent Koscielny ensured that Arsenal were rewarded for an excellent performance against a top side in the Premier League.

Maurizio Sarris Chelsea were lethargic and lacklustre, a point he criticised in his post-match press conference. Chelseas toothless attack barely threatened the home side all night and struggled to create many significant chances. Weak links in this Chelsea side were once again evident as Arsenals tactical set-up countered Chelseas strengths and exposed their weaknesses.

Arsenals pressing

A criticism levelled on Emery is that his side do not yet have a clear identity in terms of their style of play. Against Chelsea, Arsenal finally showed that they can operate as a pressing side. From the onset, the Gunners harried and pressed Chelsea whenever the visitors had the ball.

This pressing was especially concentrated on David Luiz and Jorginho. Both Luiz and Jorginho are renowned for their passing, with the former capable of playing dangerous diagonal balls or aerial through balls for Chelseas speedy attack to latch onto. Jorginho is integral to the Sarriball system, operating from deep.

Emery had obviously set his side up with clear instructions to press their opponents. This reaped dividends as Jorginho was virtually ineffective the whole game, Luiz was forced into many errors and Chelsea, generally, struggled to play out from the back.

Emerys team selection was a testament to the way he wanted his side to play. Ramsey started in the number 10 role but offered so much more. Positioning himself between the lines, he didnt offer Jorginho any space or time with his relentless pressing.

The Welshman was a great choice to start by Emery as he offered much more defensively than Ozil would have if he had started. Arsenals bite and aggression was very important. The strike duo of Lacazette and Aubameyang put in their work as well, tracking back regularly and initiating the press.