Arsenal finish top of their Europa League group but it almost seems as if we didn’t want to.
The Gunners conceded a soft penalty in the second half of their clash against FC Cologne and, despite having almost 70% of the possession and 16 shots to the German side’s four, left empty-handed.
Ainsley Maitland-Niles was Arsenal’s stand-out player by far, at least before his intensity dropped in the second half. Reiss Nelson was good when he came on as well and almost scored a worldie but he didn’t come on until the 67th minute.
Here’s how they all got on individually.
3. Forwards
Jack Wilshere – 6
The midfielder didn’t have an overly exciting game. He almost scored in the first half and looked lively in bursts but, like the rest of the team apart from Maitland-Niles, didn’t offer a great deal.
He completed eight dribbles and 88% of his passes.
Danny Welbeck – 6
It’s good to see the striker back from injury and even have a shot. His performance will improve with his fitness, not that he was terrible.
Olivier Giroud – 7
The big guy’s movement was exceptional as usual and it was obvious he was desperate for a game. Although he couldn’t get on the end of much, his survive from Coquelin and Elneny wasn’t exactly world class.
Alex Iwobi – 6
Iwobi came on the Welbz in the second half and added a bit going forward but not enough to influence the game.