Who has been Arsenal's player of the season so far?

With Arsenal's season suddenly looking a lot brighter after a turnaround in form, who has been the club's player of the season so far?

By Oli Dickson Jefford

After a poor start to the season, the outlook currently looks a lot brighter for Arsenal.

A run of positive results leading into the international break means there is suddenly a greater sense of optimism.

Things are still not perfect at the Emirates, though there have been vast improvements with several players improving in recent matches.

With the season a couple of months old now, who has been Arsenal’s best player? 

Here are the nominees...

Aaron Ramsdale

Ok, so this might be a little soon, but there’s no denying Ramsdale has impressed since his move from Sheffield United.

The 23-year-old is yet to make a mistake and has made some impressive saves, notably in league victories against Burnley and Tottenham.

Ramsdale’s confidence is also helping those around him with Arsenal’s defence now looking a lot more assured.

Perhaps it is a little too soon to say he’s been the player of the season so far but he’s certainly made a strong start to his life at the club.

Bukayo Saka

Saka was the club’s player of 2020/21 and could retain his prize if he continues his solid form to date.

In the defeats against Brentford, Chelsea and Man City at the start of the season, Saka was one of the few bright sparks that provided a glimmer of hope for Arsenal.

He has continued to shine during the team’s improvement as a whole, looking dangerous in terms of creating chances for himself and others.

If he keeps up his current rich vein of form, he will once again be a key figure in Arsenal’s attack.

Emile Smith-Rowe

Another who has impressed whenever he has stepped on the pitch is Smith-Rowe, who is starting to cement his place as a first-team regular.

The 21-year-old was among those who starred in the North London derby, scoring the opener and proving a nightmare for Spurs defenders throughout, and has been dangerous in every match he has played.

His relationship with Saka has awakened Arsenal’s attack, making it more potent, and he will most likely improve further as this season continues. 

Smith-Rowe’s goal scoring and creative output has improved massively in the past couple of months and he’s certainly been one of Arsenal’s star men in recent weeks. 

Martin Odegaard

Odegaard shone while on loan from Real Madrid and he’s continued to have a significant impact since joining permanently. 

His standout moment was his decisive free kick in the 1-0 win against Burnley but he has proven his importance to the squad in every match he’s played.

The 22-year-old is vital to Arsenal’s attack, to which he has added flair and confidence, and also supports the likes of Thomas Partey and Albert Sambi Lokonga in the centre of the pitch.

Having already become a firm favourite at the Emirates, Odegaard will continue to play a pivotal role as the season progresses. 

And the winner is...

It’s a tough one but we’re going to plump for Saka. The 20-year-old has been among the standout players in every match he’s played and is becoming increasingly crucial for Arsenal. 

With plenty of big matches to come, it will be intriguing to see who else makes a claim for this honour as the season goes on.

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