Arsenal earned a superb 5-1 win at Crystal Palace this evening, with most of their players delivering impressive performances. Here are our player ratings:
### **Starting XI**
**David Raya – 8.0**
Raya was in outstanding form, denying Jean-Philippe Mateta from close range and making at least two crucial saves from Ismaila Sarr.
**Jurrien Timber – 7.0**
He had a solid game defensively but needs to improve his support for the attack.
**William Saliba – 6.0**
Saliba was uncharacteristically troubled by Mateta and Sarr today. Not his best performance.
**Gabriel – 7.5**
Gabriel was at his dependable best, contributing not only in defence but also impressively in the attack.
**Myles Lewis-Skelly – 7.0**
Another excellent display from the young left-back. Has he secured the starting spot for good?
**Martin Odegaard – 7.5**
The captain kept the midfield ticking, particularly during the more open phases of the game. A solid performance.
**Thomas Partey – 6.5**
Back in his preferred role, Partey looked vulnerable at times. If defensive lapses like this continue, a new contract might be in jeopardy.
**Kai Havertz – 7.5**
No longer the focal point of Arsenal’s attack, but Havertz played well and capped it off with a goal.
**Bukayo Saka – 6.5**
Saka’s early injury disrupted his game, and Arsenal will be hoping it isn’t serious.
**Gabriel Jesus – 9.0**
Brimming with confidence, Jesus was unstoppable and came close to securing another hat-trick.
![Jesus celebrating v Palace](https://icdn.justarsenal.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Jesus-celebrating-v-Palace.jpg)
(Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)
**Gabriel Martinelli – 8.0**
Martinelli switched flanks seamlessly, excelling in Saka’s position. He looks like a great alternative for the England star.
### **Substitutes**
**Leandro Trossard – 7.0**
Replaced Saka and quickly adapted to the game, contributing to Arsenal’s attacking dominance.
**Declan Rice – 8.0**
What a substitute performance! Rice brought much-needed control to the midfield, something Partey struggled to provide.
**Riccardo Calafiori – 7.0**
His deep runs from defence were a joy to watch and added another dimension to Arsenal’s attack.
**Ethan Nwaneri – N/A**
Came on too late to be rated.
**Mikel Merino – N/A**
Had too little time on the pitch for a rating.