Arsenal 3-1 AC Milan - 4 key battles that decided the game

#3 Granit Xhaka vs Franck Kessie

Xhaka thoroughly bossed the midfield

Granit Xhaka has been somewhat of a paradox this season at Arsenal - his most brilliant performances are often followed by performances that make fans wonder why he is still a part of the team. This time, however, the good Xhaka showed up.

The goal might have been lucky, but it was merely the cherry on top of a thoroughly dominating performance from the Swiss midfielder. While his defensive contributions to the team were few and far between, his offensive instinct was largely helpful - the second goal effectively took all the hope out of Milan's hands.

Franck Kessie, on the other hand, had the complete opposite experience during the match. His defensive contributions were outstanding, but he let the team down when attacking as the Ivorian found it hard to find his teammates and slowed down attacks.

Xhaka vs Kessie - stats

Kessie was more comfortable this game in a 4-man midfield than the 3-man midfield Milan played with, in the last leg, and manager Gennaro Gattuso would do well to use him in formations where he is more useful to the team.