Everyone has their own version of an ultimate XI. Some even claim there’s a difference between best and greatest, but in any case, most people value winning silverware being important in these discussions. But after ending a 22 year drought, how might the current Arsenal team shape up to its greats? After all, it finally sits in the league-winning company of those before them.
The last line of defence
David Raya has now claimed three consecutive Golden Gloves. He’s the fourth goalkeeper in Premier League history to do so (joining Pepe Reina, Joe Hart, Ederson). It’s a genuine case, though many find it hard to part with Seaman’s longevity and consistency. Many see Raya as the most talented, but he needs another season or two of success before edging Seaman.
At right-back, Lauren, being an Invincibles veteran, holds off a strong challenge from Sagna. Jurrient Timber is a worthy mention as being potentially the most talented, but needs to remain injury-free and play more games to be considered.
At centre-back, Tony Adams is untouchable as the emotional and tactical spine of everything Wenger built. Next to him? William Saliba. He has won possession more often than any Arsenal player in the Premier League since making his debut in 2022. He’s 26 and now he has his title. Campbell, Keown and Gabriel are two of many worthy mentions here, but Saliba oozes a certain modern footballer class,
Ashley Cole at left-back. Easy.
The engine room
Vieira is perhaps the first name on the entire team sheet. He made 279 Premier League appearances for Arsenal and won three titles, he was also an all-rounder with no weaknesses.
Next to him in the middle of the park, we need to consider how Rice stacks up against Petit, Gilberto Silva and Fabregas. Cesc made an incredible 72 assists (32 goals). Though, Rice was the engine of Arsenal’s title, relentless across 38 games and the highest-rated outfield player in the squad when it mattered most.
Even sports betting markets had City as heavy favourites before a ball was kicked, and the Rice signing was a definite turning point. With more titles for Arsenal than Cesc, and more all-round ability than Silva, he makes the cut.
On the left, Pires over Martinelli and Trossard. Seven seasons, two titles, the most gifted wide player in the world at his peak.
On the right is where the title genuinely settles the debate. Overmars was electrifying, but injuries cut his Arsenal career short. Ljungberg was brilliant, but it was for a relatively short window. Saka, meanwhile, became the youngest Arsenal player in Premier League history to score 50 goals, even surpassing Henry’s own record from 2001. Five elite seasons, and now a champion. He makes the cut.
Where the title changes everything
Henry. The greatest player to ever wear this shirt.
Arsenal, having not had a striker for many seasons, now have Gyokeres and Havertz to choose from. But, neither can displace the class of Bergkamp, who was ahead of his time in many way.
The verdict: Three current Gunners make the cut
GK: Seaman. RB: Lauren. CB: Adams, Saliba. LB: Cole. CM: Vieira, Rice. RW: Saka. LW: Pires. ST: Henry, Bergkamp.
Three from the current squad make the cut. Ødegaard, if more consistent could get a look-in. However, we are one season away from more inclusions. If Raya wins a fourth Golden Glove, he can’t be denied anymore. If Timber and Ødegaard can stay fit and play more of a role in another successful season, they have every chance to be included. And if Arsenal remain a formidable defensive force, Gabriel may also be knocking on the door.
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