Despite not putting in the best of performances, Arsenal eased to a 1-0 win over PSV, and the man of the moment, Cody Gakpo, was unable to make a dent in his first appearance at the Emirates Stadium.
Lining up having amassed a total of 24 goal contributions, one more than Erling Haaland, this season, there was a fear the Netherlands international might be a thorn in Arsenal’s right-hand side. However, the 23-year-old was starved of service throughout the game, and it was Xavi Simons that had the more standout game.
Speaking to football.london after the 1-0 defeat to the Gunners, the PSV captain was frustrated that his side couldn’t do more. Although he credited the Emirates crowd’s noise after being questioned about making his debut in the Gunners stadium.
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"Yeah, it was a great atmosphere and a good team," he said. "We tried our best, but we failed to get a result.
"It was a little bit frustrating instead of a real joy to play here."
Perhaps he will have more joy against the Gunners when they travel to Eindhoven next week?
Gakpo has been linked with a move to Arsenal for some time. He nearly moved to Manchester United in the summer, as well as being linked with a move to Southampton and Leeds United.
He instead opted to stay with PSV. Based upon his goal contributions so far this season, he has only raised his stock amongst the top teams in addition to raising the Dutch side's valuation of him.
"I was close to leaving. I spoke to Erik ten Hag a few times at Manchester United," he told The Times. "In the end, the deal didn't go through, which was a shame for me and my development. Manchester United is one of the biggest clubs in the world, but also for PSV because to transfer a player to Manchester United is a good thing for the club.
"It ended about a week before the end of the transfer window, and in that week, I had to decide if I would go to Leeds or Southampton. In the end, I stayed, but it was a stressful period.' I always said if I stay here, it's my childhood club. It's not a punishment. 'I like being here, I want to win trophies here and do my best for the club."
Any potential move will now have to wait until the January transfer window. Arsenal will likely be in the market for a forward with the depth behind Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli far from the level produced by the starting trio.
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