Arsenal heads into the World Cup break at the top of the Premier League table. They are currently sitting 5 points ahead of second-place Man City after their best start to a league season in decades!
The Gunners have also won their Europa League group, but were knocked out of the Carabao Cup by Brighton. The overall performance of Arsenal has been superb this season and we look to rank the best performers so far.
William Saliba – 9
Does anyone remember that William Saliba is playing his debut season at Arsenal? His performances have been so good that it almost feels like the Frenchman has been a mainstay in this side for many years. Saliba has shown maturity beyond his years to upgrade his team's backline to world class.
The 21-year-old has helped the Gunners keep 7 clean sheets in 14 league games, scoring 2 goals as well. He’s averaging 2.7 clearances, 1.6 tackles, and 1.4 aerial duels won per game (stats via WhoScored).
Saliba’s pace, movement and game-reading ability have helped him perform for the Gunners. He’s bullied the likes of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Harry Kane and more stirkers in the league and is hugely responsible for his side only conceding 11 goals in 14 PL games.
Bukayo Saka – 8.5
The Englishman has taken things to another level this season for the Gunners. Bukayo Saka has added more flexibility to his game, allowing him to torment defenders with clever dribbles and cut inside more often into the area.
He’s scored 5 goals and registered 6 assists in 20 matches, featuring in almost every game so far for Arsenal. Saka has had positive contributions against Liverpool and Chelsea, adding more directness to Arsenal’s attack and being clinical in the final third.
Granit Xhaka – 8.5
Granit Xhaka has greatly benefited from Mikel Arteta’s tactical changes this season, which has seen him play in a more advanced midfield position. He’s now allowed to go forward more often because of the reliable Thomas Partey protecting the backline behind him.
Xhaka has thrived off this free role, getting more involved in the build-up play and help his side score goals. The Swiss midfielder has socred 4 goals and provided 3 assists so far in 20 appearances, his best tally in a single season for the club.
Ben White – 8
Despite being forced to revert to a right-back position for Arsenal, Ben White has not let that affect him. In fact, he seems to have gotten even better! The Englishman has kept Takehiro Tomiyasu out of the side by maintaining consistency with his performances.
The 25-year-old is averaging 2 tackles, 1.8 clearances and 0.6 interceptions per game – being very proactive to bully the opposition wingers. He’s also registered 2 assists in the Premier League and seen his performances rewarded with a place in the England squad for the World Cup.
Gabriel Jesus – 7.5
After joining the Gunners from Man City, Gabriel Jesus has been a breath of fresh air in the no.9 role. He’s added more life to the Gunners’ attack by being a very proactive player up-front. Not only has the Brazilian contributed goals , but his pressing ability and link-up play have been superb.
Jesus has scored 5 goals and provided 6 assists in all competitions so far, helping his side grind out wins all through the early phase of the season. He might not have scored in the last 9 games, but the striker’s overall contribution has been admirable.
Honourable Mentions
Gabriel Magalhaes has been rock-solid at the back partly responsible for keeping so many clean sheets for his side. Despite some erratic moments, the Brazilian full-back has protected his side from trouble time and again.
Gabriel Martinelli has also had a bright start to the season, with 5 goals and 2 assists in 14 Premier League outings.
