Chelsea player ratings vs Arsenal: 7/10 star let down by team-mates as Cole Palmer blunted | Football | Sport

Chelsea slumped to a disappointing 1-0 defeat away to Arsenal in the second leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final, as Liam Rosenior’s side were denied a spot in next month’s Wembley showpiece. The two-time European champions went into the clash between west and north London needing to overturn a 3-2 deficit from the first leg. 

The first half was somewhat of a tame affair, with neither side willing to show the other their hand too early on in the contest. The only standout moment was perhaps Chelsea’s approach to defending Arsenal’s corners, with the visitors opting to leave two attackers up the pitch, therefore forcing an extra Gunners’ defender back.

One of several Chelsea players who were fine, but not particularly great. Held his own from a defensive point of view, but didn’t look entirely comfortable when he got into attacking positions.

Held his own in defence but didn’t have much of a challenge against Viktor Gyokeres, who spent his time on the pitch seemingly cosplaying as a ghost.

Has taken to life under Rosenior and impressed once again as part of a back three. Might’ve felt hard done by to be subbed off at the 60-minute mark.

Revved up from the first minute and was certainly keen to leave his mark. Probably got dragged into the theatrics a little too much than he should, but it didn’t stop the Spanish ace from popping up at both ends of the pitch. Strong defensively, but left wanting in the final third.

The engine in midfield for Chelsea, but he was swamped a little by his counterparts, Martin Zubimendi and Declan Rice. Still covered plenty of ground, even if he lacked his usual effectivness going forward.

Combined with his fellow midfielders nicely and has certainly got the technical ability to compete at this level. Started to fade a little as the match went on.

Was involved in everything that Chelsea did well, and had a couple of mid-range sighters across both halves. But ought to have done so much better with an effort 20 yards out late on. The World Cup winner blazed his shot high and wide over the crossbar.

Put himself about at the top of the attack and was a willing runner for the 60 minutes he was on the pitch. The striker’s withdrawal on the hour mark felt like part of a planned change.

Probably the best Chelsea player on the pitch and the one who looked most likely to pop up with a moment of magic. The Arsenal backline didn’t know if they were coming or going when the Brazilian dropped into the pockets between defence and midfield.

It took until a free-kick 10 minutes from time to even realise the Englishman had even come off the bench. He had arrived to the Emirates wearing a medical mask and was named on the bench, hinting perhaps at some sort of potential illness. Regardless, the ex-Manchester City star struggled to make an impact when his team needed him most.

The ever-mecurial talent sparkled, but ultimately lacked a little shine. He’s certainly a diamond, but remains a little rough around the edges.