How did match-winner Saka do? Aston Villa v Arsenal ratings

Zion Suzuki: A debut for the £30m goalkeeper from Parma who had no chance with the opening goal. Misjudged his first corner but his distribution caught the eye and will be useful this season. 7

Matty Cash: His usual solid display and got the better of Christos Tzolis, who was replaced at the break. 6

Pau Torres: Helped keep Arsenal at bay until they broke the deadlock in the second half. 6

Victor Lindelof: The Sweden international diligently tried to keep Arsenal in check. Has not let Villa down since arriving on a free transfer. 6

Ian Maatsen: With new signing Matteo Ruggeri on the bench, he has competition and had his hands full with Bukayo Saka, and was beaten to the ball for the goal. 6

Boubacar Kamara: The midfielder is so crucial to how Villa play and he offered an important shield to frustrate the Gunners until Saka's opener. 7

Ross Barkley: The former Everton youngster has been given a second chance at Villa as they rebuild and tried to keep the hosts flowing. 6

John McGinn: The skipper drilled over and was his usual energetic self as Villa tried to unsettle Arsenal and did not drop his energy levels. 6

Emi Buendia: The Argentina international hit the bar early and was a good creative outlet for the hosts but could not find the killer touch. 6

George Hemmings: Villa rate the 19-year-old highly and he showed no fear against the champions. He threatened in the first half, especially with one low cross. 7

Nicolas Jackson: The £65m record signing will take time as he replaces Ollie Watkins but showed flashes of what he can bring. 6

Subs:

Tammy Abraham (on 71, Jackson): Included despite Ipswich trying to take him on loan, but could not find a leveller. 6

Alysson (on 71, Hemmings): Winger looked lively in second-half cameo. 6

Alejandro Garnacho (on 78, Barkley): Could not provide late magic. 5

Aaron Wan-Bissaka (on 78, Cash): Debut appearance came late on. 5

Subs not used: Bizot, Bogarde, Lynch, Mings, Ruggeri