Manchester United 1-1 Arsenal: 5 Hits and Flops | Premier League 2019/20

#4 Hit: Matteo Guendouzi

Guendouzi worked hard defensively and needed to, against a United side who could have scored more

This was a typical, defiant Matteo Guendouzi display: he worked relentlessly, made a crucial defensive recovery to thwart a United counter-attack in its tracks early in the second-half and had an exasperated look on his face, gesturing to retreating teammates to do more.

That moment rather typified Arsenal's defensive woes, where players are often out of position, caught too high up the pitch or seemingly lose all positional awareness and left exposed by alert attackers who can sense danger seconds before a lethargic Gunners backline does.

Guendouzi was, as usual, the best of Arsenal's midfield trio - partnered by Lucas Torreira and captain Granit Xhaka on this occasion. Winning twelve of his 19 duels, he was fouled on six separate occasions, completed four tackles, three clearances and enjoyed 89.7% pass accuracy too.

Although he's sure to be a nuisance for opposition players (and their fans!) to deal with during tight matches like these, it was refreshing to see him embrace the role and responsibility he does so often, by keeping United midfielders at an arm's length. Purposeful and energetic as usual, that infectious attitude was on display again. It was just a shame the large portion of his teammates couldn't follow suit often enough.