5 candidates for next Arsenal captain

With club captain Mikel Arteta likely to depart in the summer and Per Mertesacker’s place in the first-team being challenged by the increasingly impressive Gabriel, Arsene Wenger will have one eye on which of his players could take on the captains armband in the near future.

The Gunners have a squad full of world class quality all over the pitch, but to captain such a famous club, a player needs not only footballing ability, but the experience, leadership skill and temperament to command respect from their team mates and be role model and model professional both on and off the pitch.

I had a look at five players in the squad who could fit the bill. Who would be your choice? Let us know in the comments!

Hit current captain Arteta below to see FIVE possible candidates for next Arsenal captain!

Laurent Koscielny

The Frenchman is one of the best defenders in world football and often takes the armband when Per is out of the team. He’s captained the side in the past two fixtures and particularly against Bournemouth when the stakes were high, showed superb leadership at the back to keep the defence solid.

The 30-year-old has matured over the past few years into a commanding presence for the club and definitely has the temperament and leadership skills to be an excellent captain. At the moment, most Gooners seem to agree that he should take over from Per on a permanent basis.

Peter Cech

Cech would make a fantastic captain with his vast experience, leadership skills and the respect he commands in the dressing room.

He’s the most decorated and experienced player at the club, a born champion and has proved since his arrival what an uplifting, motivating and calming presence he is to the side.

We have been a far more solid team defensively since Cech arrived and the big keeper is a model professional on and off the pitch. He is an excellent candidate and has plenty of experience as he has captained both Chelsea and the Czech Republic in his career so far.

Aaron Ramsey

The Welshman is a well liked player in the squad for his leadership, maturity and hard work for his team mates on the pitch.

He has experience of leading a side as he was given the Welsh captaincy at 21 years old and although it would be a bold statement for Arsene to hand the 26-year-old the armband over Koscielny or Cech, I’ve no doubt he would make an excellent captain.

Santi Cazorla

The Spaniard has a wise head on his shoulders and this season has transformed himself into one of the best central midfielder’s in the League.

As he approaches his 32nd birthday, he is a good age for a captain and is a hugely popular member of the squad. With the skill and class he shows week in week out in centre of midfield to dictate play and drive us forward, he would be a popular choice for many Gooners.

Mesut Ozil

There’s very few players as instrumental, creative or who work harder for their team mates than Mesut Ozil. Although an outside bet, the Germans class and quality would command respect from the squad.

As he enters his late twenties, he is becoming a more commanding presence on the pitch and has stepped up to ridiculous levels of performance and consistency this season.