As the Premier League season intensifies, a statistical combined XI has been generated by Sofascore ahead of the London derby between Arsenal and Chelsea. The analysis, which ranks players based on their performances in the opening matches of the season, includes seven Chelsea players to Arsenal's four.
In goal, Chelsea's new signing Emiliano Martinez has been selected over Arsenal's David Raya. Martinez, who joined Chelsea from Aston Villa less than a week prior to the match, received a Sofascore rating of 8.10. Despite conceding three goals in his first outing, Martinez's rating edged out Raya, who had not conceded this season but had faced only one shot on target.
The defensive line features Arsenal's Ben White at right back, rated at 7.73. White has been a consistent performer for Arsenal, contributing to two clean sheets and registering an assist in the opening game. The center back pairing consists of Chelsea's Josh Acheampong (7.10) and Maxence Lacroix (6.97). Acheampong, a young defender, has impressed in both league appearances and a Carabao Cup victory. Lacroix, a summer signing for Chelsea, has been a defensive stalwart, leading his teammates in clearances and tackles.
Arsenal's Riccardo Calafiori occupies the left-back position with a rating of 7.57. Despite a season hampered by injuries, Calafiori has started strong, earning man of the match honors against Aston Villa.
The midfield and attack are heavily influenced by Chelsea's strong start to the season. Bukayo Saka (7.47) of Arsenal is named on the right wing, having scored two goals in the team's opening two fixtures. In central midfield, Chelsea's Cole Palmer (8.17) is recognized as Sofascore's highest-rated player heading into the derby. Palmer has been instrumental in Chelsea's high-scoring start, contributing goals and assists. Alongside him is Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard (7.93), who has been a key figure in Arsenal's success, scoring in the season opener and leading the team in tackles.
Chelsea's Morgan Rogers (7.57) is positioned in attacking midfield, noted for his ball-carrying ability and high expected assists. The strike partnership features Chelsea's Joao Pedro (7.67), who has scored in both of his league appearances, and veteran Danny Welbeck (7.50). Welbeck, a summer signing for Chelsea, has limited Premier League game time but converted a chance in the League Cup. Pedro has been a significant contributor to Chelsea's scoring, winning duels and demonstrating tenacity on the field.
Arsenal aims to maintain its perfect start to its title defense, while Chelsea, also with two wins from two, seeks to establish itself as a contender.