Arsenal player ratings vs Fulham as many score 5/10 in 2-1 defeat

Arsenal squandered an opportunity to seize top spot in the Premier League on New Year's Day, succumbing to a disappointing defeat to Fulham.

Although Bukayo Saka swiftly put the Gunners into the lead within five minutes, Raul Jimenez, returning from suspension, equalised. Bobby Decordova-Reid then secured the decisive goal around the hour mark.

This defeat moves Mikel Arteta's side to fourth, trailing leaders Liverpool by two points. The latter, hosting Newcastle on New Year's Day, maintain their edge over the Gunners.

Fulham in 13th, managed to halt a streak of three consecutive defeats with the win at Craven Cottage.

Here's how we rated the Arsenal players in their 2-1 defeat to Marco Silva's side:

David Raya: Made a few good saves but couldn't do too much about Fulham's goals. 6.

Ben White: Struggled to make a significant impact both defensively and offensively. 5.

William Saliba: Found himself caught off guard at times, leading to defensive lapses. 5.

Gabriel: Faced challenges throughout the game, but showed moments of resilience. 5.

Jakub Kiwior: Displayed signs of nervousness and didn't look composed on the ball. 5.

Declan Rice: Couldn't assert his usual influence on the game, facing difficulties in dictating play. Uncharacteristically subdued. 5.

Martin Odegaard: Fell short of expectations, struggling to leave a lasting impact on the match. Disappointing overall. 5.

Kai Havertz: Found it challenging to break through Fulham's defence and failed to make a significant difference. 6.

Bukayo Saka: Managed to find the back of the net, but struggled to impose himself on the game. 6.

Eddie Nketiah: Failed to showcase the clinical finishing expected of him after he replaced Gabriel Jesus in the line-up. 6.

Gabriel Martinelli: Tried to make an impact, but couldn't influence the game as desired. 5.

Substitutes:

Takehiro Tomiyasu: Provided stability defensively. 6.

Gabriel Jesus: Unable to make a difference. 5.

Leandro Trossard: Failed to make a substantial contribution after coming on. 5.

Reiss Nelson: Remained largely anonymous, unable to make a notable impact during his time on the pitch. 5.