Rio Ferdinand, a former Manchester United player, has defended William Saliba after Arsenal lost 3-1 at Old Trafford.
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At first glance, the Arsenal defenders appeared to have backed off Rashford, allowing him to pick out Antony for Manchester United’s first goal, Saliba in particular.
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Rio, on the other hand, has reviewed the situation and believes Zinchenko is to blame.
Arsenal were looking to extend their unbeaten run to six games against Manchester United. It is also the first time this season that the Gunners have conceded three goals.
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Despite the loss, Arsenal still remain top of the league with 15 points. Rio, speaking on his FIVE YouTube channel, stated:
“The ball got played forward and Gabriel jumps out, that’s the first mistake. He goes to ground which leaves them all at sea at the back, they’re all over the place.”
“I don’t think Saliba was too far off in his position with Rashford. As a defender he’s saying to Rashford you’ve gotta beat me then score.”
The biggest mistake for me personally was that Zinchenko doesn’t come in and get the ball and clamp Rashford. If you’re going to come all the way in he has to win the ball. I would have preferred the left back to say if he beats me i’ll cover you.”
“If I was Saliba, I’d have been happy with what I’d done but I’d have been unhappy with that Zinchenko did.”