A lot of Arsenal fans took to Twitter to express their admiration for Dani Ceballos after his impressive display against Liverpool on Monday.
The North London club took the lead courtesy of Alexandre Lacazette but ultimately went on to lose the game 3-1. Goals from Sadio Mane, Andrew Robertson and Diogo Jota gave the defending champions a comfortable victory.
The Spaniard didn’t start the game with Mohamed Elneny taking up his slot. But Ceballos was brought in around the hour mark as a substitute for Granit Xhaka. After his introduction, the Emirates club seemed to play with more energy.
His ability ensured that Arteta’s side were able to hold the ball better. Along with Elneny, the Spaniard kept things ticking and created some good opportunities in attack. This was noticed by fans who were quick to express their praise for the on-loan midfielder. Here are some of the best reactions:
Ceballos is running the show
— Roddrick waverson (@theydontkno_) September 28, 2020
Ceballos is majestic
— La Pausa (@GEGENFRESH87) September 28, 2020
https://twitter.com/_sakalinho/status/1310683574555742209
Liverpool played such a high line, Xhaka and Elneny didn’t even bother sending balls over the top. What a surprise that Ceballos looked absolute class when he came on and bothered to be progressive and incisive
— Seth (@SethLeeOfficial) September 29, 2020
Ceballos been our best player and he has only played 35 odd mins
— 80sirishlegend (@80sirishlegend) September 28, 2020
Dani Ceballos is one hell of a baller
— Santi (@SantiXBT) September 28, 2020
https://twitter.com/Vikazette/status/1310679836969652224
One of the hallmarks of this Liverpool side is the intensity with which they press. So, to beat them, you have to beat the press, and this is one aspect where the midfielder excels at. His close control and balance gives him the ability to go past players with ease.
The North London club created some good goal-scoring opportunities in the second and that was all down to Ceballos’ passing game. The Spaniard’s desire to make something happen was enough to worry the opposition defense and with better finishing, the score could have been different.
It is intriguing to think how the match would have gone if the midfielder started the game. His partnership with Xhaka has been an important factor in Gunners successful run over the past couple of months, so it was surprising to see him start on the bench.
Mikel Arteta might have had his reasons to bench Ceballos but it did cost the team a win. A win over the Premier League champions would have been a morale booster but they will have to put this match behind them and focus on the Carabao Cup where they will once again take on Liverpool.
