9x possession lost, 0 aerials won: 49-touch star was Arsenal's worst player vs Brighton, had reality check - opinion
Arsenal midfielder Bruno Guimaraes produced a dismal performance during his maiden Premier League start for the club against Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday afternoon.
The Gunners went into the game at the Amex Stadium on a seven-match winning streak, but they were completely outplayed by the Seagulls, who secured a convincing 3-0 victory.
Guimaraes made his full league debut for Arsenal. He was rewarded with a starting spot on the back of scoring a tremendous long-range goal to open the scoring against Sunderland.
The Brazil international made a big difference coming off the bench at the Stadium of Light, but he struggled to impose himself yesterday until his 60th-minute substitution.
Overall, the 28-year-old registered 33 passes with 49 touches. However, the majority of those were in his own half. Guimaraes lost possession nine times and did not win an aerial duel.
The £75 million signing had a reality check after his goal-scoring heroics at Sunderland.
He looked a lost figure in the heart of the midfield, and there were several occasions when his teammates around him questioned his positioning and decision-making.
In our view, Guimaraes was the worst player on the pitch yesterday. It remains to be seen whether he will keep his place in the starting XI when Arsenal host Leeds United after the international break.
Despite the loss, Arsenal have still made a good start to the season with 12 points in five league matches. They are only goal difference behind leaders Manchester City, who have a game in hand against Sunderland.
Hence, the Gunners could realistically finish the gameweek with a three-point deficit to the Cityzens. They need to provide a strong response against Leeds at the Emirates Stadium next month.
Stats from Sofascore.com
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