Arsenal 0-2 Chelsea: Hits and flops as the Blues claim the spoils in the London derby | Premier League 2021-22

#3 Hit: Romelu Lukaku

Lukaku (R) was dominant in his role as Chelsea's striker as he bagged his first goal for the club

It did not take long for Lukaku to mark his second Chelsea debut with his first goal for the Blues. He got on the scoresheet with a simple tap-in as early as the 15th minute.

However, the goal wasn’t all that he offered Chelsea in this game. The big Belgian caused the Arsenal defense all sorts of problems with his astute movement and formidable physicality.

Romelu Lukaku’s game by numbers vs. Arsenal: 95% pass accuracy 43 touches 11 touches in opp. box (most) 8 shots (most) 8 duels won (most) 2 shots on target 2 take-ons 2 fouls won 1 big chance created 1 goal Another debut goal for Big Rom. ⚽️ pic.twitter.com/kgo8cTyetz

— Squawka Football (@Squawka) August 22, 2021

While he spent most of the first half playing exclusively through the middle, Lukaku tended to drift out wide in the second half. He created spaces for his fellow attackers to exploit as he drew defenders out of position.

As such, this dominant showing serves as a warning to defenders across the league as to the considerable threat that Chelsea now carry in their ranks.

#4 Flop: Pablo Mari

A tough day at the office for Mari (R) against Lukaku

Playing against Romelu Lukaku is an unenviable task, one that any defender would struggle with, and Pablo Mari proved as much in this game.

The Spaniard had trouble dealing with Lukaku’s pace and strength from the start, with the Belgian striker shaking him off fairly easily in the build-up to Chelsea’s first goal.

With a little over half an hour played, Mari even picked up a booking for a late tackle from behind on Lukaku. He was constantly searching for alternate ways to deal with the Belgian's threat.

It is to Mari’s credit that he got through the second half while walking the disciplinary tightrope. However, he still struggled to keep pace with Lukaku and was perhaps fortunate that the striker did not add to his tally.

#5 Hit: Mason Mount

Mount (R) sparkled in the Chelsea midfield and claimed the assist for his side's second goal

Chelsea’s multiple additions to their attacking resources over the past couple of seasons cast a few doubts over Mason Mount’s future at the club. It was postulated that the young Englishman might struggle to hold his own amongst more ‘established’ stars.

However, Mount has proceeded to prove his doubters wrong and has established himself as one of Chelsea’s key players. His sparkling display against Arsenal was just another example of what he can offer on the pitch.

Mason Mount has now been directly involved in 12 Premier League goals since the start of last season: ◉ 6 goals◉ 6 assists Perfectly balanced. ⚖️ pic.twitter.com/SFhMrOK76g

— Squawka Football (@Squawka) August 22, 2021

Displaying excellent movement and precise passing, Mount was a constant threat in Arsenal’s side and claimed the assist for James’ goal.

The young midfielder backed up his attacking display by putting in a strong shift defensively as well. He covered a lot of grass and made his fair share of tackles and interceptions.