Many Arsenal fans were impressed by January signing Pablo Mari’s long-awaited debut in the 2-0 FA Cup win over League One side Portsmouth last night.
The Spanish central defender, on loan from Brazilian side Flamengo, was one of the best players on the pitch based off his stats from Sofascore.com. According to the website, Mari made more blocks than any other player (three) and was not dribbled past in the whole game. He achieved an overall rating of eight out of ten, bettered only by defensive partner Sokratis Papastathopoulos who was given 8.3.
He also had 100 touches of the ball, bettered only by teammate Matteo Guendouzi (102), and provided 77 passes with 89% accuracy, amongst the highest in the game. His willingness to have the ball at his feet is useful for Mikel Arteta’s possession-based game.
These fans took to Twitter to heap praise on the 26-year-old for his ‘calm and composed’ performance:
I was well impressed by Pablo Mari last night. Looked very composed and commanding, and not the type to panic. One hell of a left foot as well to find a man.
— Hiten. (@HitenPatel13) March 3, 2020
https://twitter.com/treasuredfrank/status/1234758051690942464
Pablo Mari really looked good today. I think he will fit in well alongside a pacey, powerful, man to man marking CB. Someone in the old Koscielny mold. #afc
— Sanket (@SanketGooner) March 2, 2020
Like the look of Pablo Mari, composed in possession, very Laporte like in technique. Will be interesting to see how he plays under real stress, but coped well in the conditions tonight.
— Matt Ray (@MattRay_83) March 2, 2020
Great second-half performance by Arsenal – well done to all the team, especially the debutant Pablo Mari, who I thought was excellent. Off to the next round of the #EmiratesFACup #COYG #PORARS
— Fadhil Abdi Bare (@Fadhilow) March 2, 2020
Pablo Mari has an excellent passing range for a defender. Very calm and composed on the ball.
Doesn’t rush into anything which is crucial. Solid first half from the Spaniard.
— Jagjeet Singh (@JagjeetSUberoi) March 2, 2020
Arsenal fans, were you impressed with Mari’s debut? Comment below!
