Chelsea again fell short when tested against top opposition in the Premier League following a 5-0 defeat to Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal at the Emirates. The Blues were up against it straight away after Leandro Trossard scored in the fourth minute to give Arsenal the lead, and set the tone for the game.
The Gunners then had 14 shots in search of the second goal, but the Blue's backline held on until the second half when Ben White scored to make it 2-0 and take the game from the visitors. There wasn’t a long wait for the third and fourth goals after that, with former Chelsea forward Kai Havertz helping himself to two quick-fire goals. Making it 4-0.
Chelsea came into this London derby without a clean sheet in their last 13 away games, but Arsenal looked more hungry, balanced and determined. Winning the 50/50 duals and forcing their rivals into submission.
By the time Arsenal full-back White would get his second of the night and Arsenal’s fifth, the game had been truly home and dry with most of the Chelsea players counting down the seconds and looking forward to the referee blowing his final whistle.
The last time Chelsea played in the league they scored six against Everton at Stamford Bridge, here at the Emirates they were in danger of suffering the same fate with 20 minutes to go.
Declan Rice came close to a sixth for his side, and Pochettino made changes to close out the game even though Arsenal went home with three points and their highest win against in the Premier League.
Here is how we rated every Chelsea player out there.
1. Petrovic -4
Would be disappointed to have conceded from his near post in the manner he did for the first goal. Made two brilliant saves after that to keep Chelsea in the game in that first half. Concede for more after the break.
2. Benoit Badiashile- 5
Recovered after a very slow start to the game where he just never looked at his blind spot. Made two great interceptions in the first half. Then was bossed off the field by the Arsenal attack in the second half.
3. Marc Cucurella- 5
Had a really strong battle with Saka. Booked but definitely held his own against one of the best forwards in the game. Hard-working all game. One of Chelsea's top performers.
4. Axel Disasi -5
Nearly put through his own net. Tough game for the French defender.