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Player ratings: Arsenal Edge Past Wolves in Hard-Fought Victory

By on January 26, 2025

Riccardo Calafiori

Arsenal secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday afternoon, with substitute defender Riccardo Calafiori scoring in the 74th minute to deliver all three points for the Gunners.

The game was marked by a flurry of red cards, as Arsenal were reduced to 10 men in the first half after youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly was controversially sent off. Wolves’ João Gomes also received his marching orders in the second half after collecting a second yellow card. Despite being a man down for much of the game, Arsenal produced a spirited display to keep Wolves at bay and maintained pressure on league leaders Liverpool thanks to Calafiori’s winner.

Arsenal Player Ratings vs Wolves

David Raya – 7/10

The Spanish goalkeeper came up big when needed, making crucial saves, including one to deny Rayan Aït-Nouri. He also saved  a dangerous deflected Matheus Cunha effort, ensuring Arsenal kept a clean sheet.

Jurrien Timber – 7/10

The Dutch right-back impressed again with his pace and defensive work. He provided attacking options down the right flank and put in a solid shift, though he picked up a yellow card.

William Saliba – 8/10

The French center-back returned from injury with an excellent performance, snuffing out Wolves’ attacking threats and delivering a commanding display for Arsenal.

Gabriel Magalhães – 7/10

The Brazilian defender stood firm at the back, partnering well with Saliba to secure another clean sheet for the Gunners.

Myles Lewis-Skelly – 6/10

The young left-back put in a decent performance before being harshly sent off in what many considered a controversial decision by referee Michael Oliver.

Thomas Partey – 7/10

The Ghanaian midfielder dictated play from deep, controlling the tempo and providing much-needed stability, even with Arsenal down to 10 men.

Declan Rice – 8/10

Arsenal’s standout performer. Rice covered every inch of the pitch, drove the team forward, and provided defensive cover. A tireless and critical display earns him our Man of the Match award.

Ethan Nwaneri – 6/10

The 17-year-old showed promise filling in for Martin Ødegaard – who was sick. However, he was substituted in the first half to adjust for Lewis-Skelly’s red card.

Gabriel Martinelli – 6/10

The Brazilian winger struggled against Wolves defender Emmanuel Agbadou. However, his half-cross played a crucial role in Calafiori’s winning goal.

Leandro Trossard – 7/10

Trossard was Arsenal’s liveliest attacking player. He created several chances and came close to earning an assist.

Kai Havertz – 5/10

The German forward missed three big opportunities, including one from a sublime Trossard pass. While his work rate was commendable, his finishing left much to be desired.

Substitutes

Riccardo Calafiori – 8/10

The Italian defender came on for Nwaneri and made an instant impact, scoring the decisive goal and contributing defensively.

Kieran Tierney – N/A

Introduced in the 87th minute, Tierney helped see out the win for Arsenal.

The win puts Arsenal on 47 points from 23 games as they continue their pursuit of Liverpool at the top of the table. Mikel Arteta’s side now turns their attention to the UEFA Champions League, with an important away fixture against Girona in Spain. Arsenal will aim to close their group stage campaign on a high note.