Overview

• The 26-year-old replaced Martin Ødegaard after an early knee-on-knee collision and immediately dictated play from deep.
• He won the ball and released Eberechi Eze before Declan Rice’s opener, then found Jurrien Timber in the move that led to Bukayo Saka’s penalty as Arsenal went top of the Premier League.
• Spain’s Marca lauded his authority, describing him as “impossible to leave out” and saying he has transformed Arsenal’s midfield.
• English outlets said he was “tough to leave on the bench,” highlighting his composure, game intelligence and the balance he brought to Mikel Arteta’s setup.
• Coverage in Spain now questions leaving him out of the national team, with reports arguing it is difficult to justify benching him given Rodri’s return.