Five things we learned from Arsenal 2-1 Everton | OneFootball

Arsenal have missed out on winning their first Premier League title in 20 years despite beating Everton 2-1.

The Gunners came from behind in the first half to secure victory, but that was not enough as they finished two points behind eventual Champions Manchester City.

Here are five things we learned from the game…

Gunners come from behind but it is not enough for title

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Arsenal have shown grit and determination throughout the season, and after Idrissa Gana Gueye’s freekick deflected off Declan Rice to give Everton the lead, the Gunners rallied to ensure they did all they could do in the race for the title. Takehiro Tomiysau fired in to equalise in the first half but Kai Havertz fired the ball in from close range in the 90th minute to secure Arsenal the victory. Unfortunately for Mikel Arteta’s side, it was not enough to win the title.

Martinelli struggles on return to starting XI

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Bukayo Saka’s injury may have ruled him out for Arsenal’s title decider, but it presented Gabriel Martinelli a chance to impress on his returned to the starting line-up. The Brazilian winger did show flashes throughout the march, but he was underwhelming in what has been a disappointing, injury hit campaign. With Leandro Trossard’s excellent end of season form, Martinelli is no longer a guaranteed starter under Mikel Arteta, and will now need to fight for his place.

Timber return an added boost to an impressive season

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The Emirates stadium rose to their feet in the 67th minute to welcome back Jurrien Timber from injury. The young Dutch defender has been out since damaging his Anterior Cruciate Ligament on the opening day of the season against Nottingham Forest. Timber has played several U23 matches, but today was his first taste of men’s football since August. Rustiness was to be expected, especially when only five minutes in the fullback found himself in the book, but it was an overall encouraging cameo.

Plenty to work on for Arsenal despite title challenge

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Mikel Arteta and Arsenal deserve plenty of credit for taking the Premier League title race until the final match. They have been the strongest defensively and narrowly missed out on having the most potent attack. However, as Manchester City strode towards their fourth consecutive league title, there is plenty for the Gunners to work on to make sure they are in a better position next campaign. Some improvements to the squad will definitely be needed in their fight to dethrone City.

Saka absence a concern ahead of Euro 2024

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Stood on the pitch after the full time whistle, Bukayo Saka’s dejected, upset look was not a pleasant one. The winger missed Arsenal’s final match of their enthralling title race due to as described by the club, ‘a slight muscle issue,’ but for England, these continuous niggles Saka has been suffering recently could not come at a worse time with the Euros in Germany just around the corner. The international period in two weeks, so maybe a break will be just what Saka needs, and hopefully gets.