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Arsenal player ratings vs Inter: Gabriel Jesus shines in victory as Gyokeres makes impactful cameo

Gabriel Jesus' standout performance propels Arsenal to a crucial 3-1 win against Inter, securing a top-two finish in the Champions League group stage. Meanwhile, Viktor Gyokeres' timely goal off the bench ensures the Gunners maintain their perfect European record this season.

Arsenal player ratings vs Inter: Gabriel Jesus shines in victory as Gyokeres makes impactful cameo

Gabriel Jesus' virtuoso display secured Arsenal a top-two spot in the league phase of the Champions League as they earned an impressive 3-1 win at Inter. The Brazil forward stole the show in Italy to stake his claim to be the Gunners' starting striker going forward, only for substitute Viktor Gyokeres to fire in a timely reminder to Mikel Arteta as his side maintained their 100 per cent record in Europe this season.Seeking the longest winning streak in their history in Europe's top competition, Arsenal made a fast start as Jesus nearly got on the end of Bukayo Saka's dangerous pass across the six-yard box. They did take the lead in the 10th minute when the Brazilian striker reacted quickest to Jurrien Timber's scuffed shot as he guided the ball home with an instinctive finish. The hosts responded well to falling behind, however, and eight minutes later it was 1-1 when Petar Sucic leathered in a well-struck shot from 18 yards. It could have been 2-1 when Marcus Thuram slashed a wild shot over the bar when he was well placed in the box. The Gunners have become known as the Premier League's set-piece kings, and they enhanced that reputation when Leandro Trossard headed Saka's cross back into the mixer and Jesus - who only returned from an anterior cruciate ligament injury less than six weeks ago - was on hand to head in from a yard out just after the half-hour mark. At the other end, Federico Dimarco was twice denied by David Raya to end a breathless first half in Milan.Arsenal were not far away from having a two-goal cushion when Trossard volleyed just wide following great wing play from Saka. The England winger was then set free in the box, but he dawdled, and Alessandro Bastoni got back with a clattering challenge. They finally got a deserved third when Gyokeres fired in a much-needed goal six minutes from time following a stupendous pass from Gabriel Martinelli. The result means Arsenal, who have now secured seven wins from seven in a club record, can look forward to a home tie in the round of 16.GOAL rates Arsenal's players from San Siro...David Raya (7/10):The Spaniard marshalled his area well and didn't look particularly troubled against a top side.Jurrien Timber (6/10):Has been such a dependable force for Arsenal this season but the Dutchman wasn't at his best against Inter.William Saliba (8/10):Was a class act at the back and seemed to be a step ahead of Inter's tricky attack, using his quick feet and poise to good effect at the back.Cristhian Mosquera (6/10):On his first start since returning from an ankle injury, the 21-year-old sometimes struggled with the pace of the game and the dangerous Thuram and Lautaro Martinez.Myles Lewis-Skelly (5/10):Just doesn't seem to be the same player that burst onto the scene last season. Maybe needs more game time to get himself going.Eberechi Eze (6/10):Doesn't seem to have the same zip he had earlier on this season. Was limited to the odd shot, mixed in with losing the ball one time too many.Martin Zubimendi (7/10):The summer signing looks so calm and collected in possession and he did his defensive duties well.Mikel Merino (6/10):Added some more physicality to Arsenal's midfield but picked up a clumsy yellow, which means he is suspended for their next Champions League tie.Leandro Trossard (7/10):Despite being slightly outplayed by his fellow Arsenal attackers, the wily Belgian still created openings for his team and got an assist.Gabriel Jesus (9/10):A near-flawless performance from the 28-year-old. Bagged a brace, the first of which was taken really well. He held the ball up well, brought others in to play, and was a constant threat.Bukayo Saka (8/10):Caused Inter's backline all sorts of problems, and on another day, he could have had a handful of goals and assists. Just wasn't quite clinical enough in front of goal but still, an impressive all-round display to go with his assist.Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingBen White (6/10):Went about his business quietly.Declan Rice (7/10):The Englishman was as solid as ever for his team.Viktor Gyokeres (8/10):Provided a good physical presence in attack and took his goal really well.Gabriel Magalhaes (7/10):Added a bit more defensive assuredness.Gabriel Martinelli (7/10):Fired a brilliant long-range pass that paved the way to Arsenal's third.Mikel Arteta (8/10):The Spaniard has been criticised, by some, for winning ugly this season, but this performance was anything but that. They showed off many of their qualities and the decision to start Jesus was an inspired one. He has so much strength in depth.

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Arsenal's Strong Start and Gabriel Jesus' Brilliance

In a thrilling encounter at San Siro, Arsenal asserted themselves early on with Gabriel Jesus proving his worth as a starting striker. The Brazilian forward was instrumental in securing the opening goal with a well-taken finish, showcasing his instinct for scoring under pressure. His clinical performance, which included a brace, highlighted his strength, link-up play, and overall threat to Inter's defense.

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Inter's Resilience and Arsenal's Set-Piece Prowess

Despite Inter's spirited response to level the score, Arsenal's reputation as set-piece experts shone through as Leandro Trossard's assist set up Jesus for a crucial goal. The Gunners' dominance in dead-ball situations continued to be a key asset, leading to chances and ultimately, goals against a resilient Inter side.

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Viktor Gyokeres' Impact and Arsenal's Perfect Record

Viktor Gyokeres' late goal sealed Arsenal's victory, underlining the crucial importance of squad depth and the impact of substitutes in key moments. Gyokeres' contribution highlighted the Gunners' ability to maintain a perfect Champions League record this season, showcasing their strength as contenders in Europe's top competition.

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Player Ratings: Standouts and Performances

Individual performances were key to Arsenal's success, with Gabriel Jesus rightfully earning high praise for his near-perfect display. Standout performances from key players like Bukayo Saka and William Saliba, coupled with impactful contributions from substitutes like Gyokeres and Martinelli, reflected Arsenal's depth and quality across the squad.

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Mikel Arteta's Tactical Acumen and Team Progress

Mikel Arteta's strategic decisions, including starting Gabriel Jesus and making effective substitutions, paid dividends in a convincing Arsenal victory. The Gunners showcased their strengths and depth under Arteta's guidance, continuing their impressive form in Europe and setting the stage for a promising run in the Champions League.

Published on Jan 20, 2026