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[Player Ratings] Arsenal 2-1 Fulham: Saka returns but Martinelli shines

By on April 2, 2025

Bukayo Saka

Arsenal secured a 2-1 victory over Fulham in a match in which Bukayo Saka returned after three months out.

The Gunners faced an early setback when Gabriel Magalhaes was forced off due to injury. Jurrien Timber also picked up a knock and while he initially managed to continue, the Dutchman was eventually forced off in the second half.

Despite these challenges, Arsenal took control and opened the scoring in the 37th minute.

Ethan Nwaneri set up Mikel Merino, whose deflected strike found the net. Arsenal missed several opportunities to extend their lead but kept pushing forward.

Saka came on for Nwaneri in the second half and wasted no time making an impact. Gabriel Martinelli’s clever flick set up the England winger, who headed in Arsenal’s second goal.

Fulham struggled in attack, with Rodrigo Muniz missing a clear chance before pulling one back in the 93rd minute but Arsenal held on for the win.

Arsenal Player Ratings Against Fulham

David Raya – 7/10

He made solid saves and handled the pressure well. Could not stop Fulham’s late goal.

Jurrien Timber – 6/10

Overcame an early scare and defended well. Missed a big chance before being forced off in the 77th minute.

William Saliba – 6/10

Had a few shaky moments but remained reliable at the back.

Gabriel Magalhaes – N/A

Left the game early due to injury in a huge blow for Arsenal – especially with Real Madrid coming up.

Myles Lewis-Skelly – 7/10

Energetic on the wing and played a key role in the second goal.

Thomas Partey – 6/10

Had some nervy moments but was overall steady. Moved to right-back late in the game.

Declan Rice – 7/10

Covered plenty of ground and helped drive Arsenal forward. Missed a late chance to score.

Martin Odegaard – 7/10

Showed glimpses of quality but did not dominate.

Ethan Nwaneri – 7/10

Switched flanks often and assisted Merino for the opening goal.

Mikel Merino – 7/10

Still adjusting to playing as a striker but made a difference with a great finish.

Gabriel Martinelli – 8/10 (Man of the Match)

Started brightly, causing problems for the Fulham defense. Assisted Saka with a brilliant flick.

Substitutes

Jakub Kiwior – 5/10

Struggled at times against Raul Jimenez. Had some nervous moments but avoided major errors.

Bukayo Saka – 7/10

Scored shortly after coming on, marking his return in style.

Leandro Trossard – N/A

Did not play long enough to be rated.

Arsenal will take confidence from this win, but early injuries will be a huge concern with the huge Champions League double header against Madrid on the horizon.