Arsenal’s 5 best players for the Premier League 2024/25 season [ranked]

As attention slowly focuses back to the up-and-coming Premier League season following the UEFA European Championships, Arsenal's ambitions for the coming season are high. 

On appointment in 2019, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta formulated a five-year plan which aimed to transform the club into title contenders. Last year's campaign was year four of this plan, and showed the transition is looking promising for the final year. 

For the last two years, Arsenal have positioned themselves right at the forefront of the Premier League, being the closest team in rivalling Manchester City for the title. Having fallen short both times, most recently by two points, year five of the plan is gearing up to be an important season for the Gunners.   

To achieve their ambitions of finishing the marathon at the front, Arsenal will rely heavily on key players who can influence games and deliver consistent performances.

Despite Arteta adding significant depth to his squad, the Gunners will still rely on certain key players. 

Here is your definitive guide to Arsenal's five best and most important players for the 2024/25 Premier League season.

5. Gabriel Magalhães 

Gabriel Magalhães has become a cornerstone in the Arsenal FC defence. The left-footed Brazilian centre-back’s physical presence, aerial dominance and aggression have been essential to Arsenal’s success during the last two seasons.

Normally known as Gabriel, Magalhães is comfortable with possession and has a good reading of the game, knowing when to dive in and when not to commit. 

Gabriel is a gritty defender, and is not afraid to make a physical challenge in order to let the striker know he is there.

The Brazilian international has earned himself a reputation of being the aggressive one in his partnership with William Saliba.

Maintaining strong qualities such as leadership and resilience will be crucial for Arsenal’s success in the coming season. 

4. Declan Rice 

Declan Rice is the engine room of Arsenal’s midfield. Since joining from West Ham United in the summer of 2023, the right-footed midfielder made 38 appearances in his debut season.

Bringing a crucial blend of defensive solidarity and attacking link-ups, Rice’s versatility allows him to adapt to different midfield roles, playing both as a number six and as an eight last season.

His ability to transition between defending and attacking makes him a dynamic player and provides Arteta with a tactical flexibility which others cannot provide.  

Rice has a real skill to be able to dictate the speed of the play and ability to read the game. His sharp interceptions and anticipation allow him to effectively disrupt and break down the opposition's attack, mostly before they become a real threat. 

The midfielder’s presence in the centre of the park doesn’t only provide a reliable defensive shield for the back-line, but he also possesses leadership qualities, which adds another strength to the team. 

3. William Saliba

Having had a rather tenuous start to his Arsenal career after joining from Saint-Étienne with two spells on loan, Saliba has cemented himself as one of the most vital players for Arsenal.

Saliba’s injury away at Sporting Lisbon in the 2022/23 season was seen as the turning point in Arsenal's Premier League title challenge. At the time, they had a 5 point lead at the top of the table with 11 games to play — and as they say, the rest is history.

Composure, strength, and speed are all key components that are vital to be one of the best ball-playing centre-backs, and Saliba has this. Showing maturity beyond his years and his continuing development is pivotal to Arsenal’s defensive strength.

Keeping both Saliba and Gabriel fit for the season will be vital if Arsenal were to have any success in the coming season, having the 2022/23 season as an example to how important Saliba is to this team. 

2. Bukayo Saka

Synonymous to Arsenal’s attack, the young winger is not only a home-grown talent but also holds huge importance to the Gunners.

His mental strength and comeback since the UEFA European Championship penalty miss in 2021 shows just why he is such a role model and inspiration to fans. 

His performances are consistent, filled with skill and Saka retains an ability to pop up at crucial times with a moment of genius, making him indispensable. With his growing experience and maturity, Saka will be one of the main focal points in Arsenal attacks. 

Arsenal’s reliance on the young man can be shown by the number of matches played.

Last season, Saka only missed three matches, collecting 25 goals and assists.

It was reported that Saka was playing matches carrying certain injuries, showing even an injured Saka is still the best option Arsenal have on the right.

Like he has shown he can do in the past seasons, Saka will drive the Gunners to a strong campaign this coming season if he manages to keep fit and stay at his best. 

1. Martin Odegaard 

As club and country captain, the role Odegaard has on Arsenal is undisputed, both on and off the pitch. 

The Norwegian's influence on Arsenal’s midfield cannot be overstated. He brings vision, creativity, a calming presence, and an ability to orchestrate play from midfield. Providing key passes and linking the forwards with the midfield, Odegaard is essential for Arsenal’s style of play. 

Odegaard is a maestro when it comes to creativity. His exceptional vision allows him to see passes which cut open defences. His precise passing and intricate dribbling never lets the defence sit comfortably.

Despite being joint youngest Premier League captain, his experience and composure is invaluable for the rest of the team.

Playing in a central role, Odegaard sets the tempo of the game, making him a pivotal figure in the team's structure. His calm presence and intelligence for the tactical understanding of the game provides stability and inspiration for his fellow teammates. 

The Norwegian’s presence helps fluid transitions from defence to attack, ensuring that Arsenal maintains a sharp and dynamic attacking fluidity.

As captain and role as a number 10 means his ability to orchestrate is crucial for Arsenal and can play a massive role in how the Gunners play for the season. 

If you want more in-depth football analysis and exclusive newsletters like this, consider becoming a part of our growing community of cultured football fans with our free and paid memberships.

Your support is vital to our ability to grow and improve our independent football newsroom.

Related stories:

• Best Premier League wonderkids to watch out for in 2024/25
• Arsenal’s five most expensive transfers of all time [ranked]