4 Things we learned from Emery’s first Arsenal win

#3 Xhaka and Torreira look a better partnership than Xhaka and Guendouzi

Torreira changed the game for the better after coming on

For the third time running, Emery decided to start with Xhaka and Guendouzi in midfield. The latter didn’t have a huge impact this time round and was guilty of over-playing a little. Similarly, Xhaka did not enjoy a spectacular game but he was much more solid after Torreira came on.

Throughout the first half, Xhaka and Guendouzi got attracted to the ball and left space in the middle. The likes of Snodgrass and Anderson mercilessly exploited the space left behind. While Guendouzi’s commitment and application is commendable, he still has to mature a little. With maturity, he would improve his positioning and not get caught out as he was on occasions today.

After the introduction of Torreira, Xhaka could function as a deep-lying playmaker. It was in the playmaker role that Xhaka has enjoyed his best spell this season. He got on the ball and played his trademark cross-field passes with remarkable efficiency.

With three weeks of training behind him, Torreira should finally get his first start in the Gunners’ next assignment in Wales.

The first signs of the Torreira and Xhaka partnership are good and if they are able to form a steely partnership in the middle of the park, the Gunners would move a step closer to fulfilling their ambitions.