The 2024-25 season marks another chapter in the illustrious history of Arsenal Football Club, a team synonymous with English football.
This season is particularly significant as it represents Arsenal’s 33rd campaign in the Premier League, their 99th consecutive season in the top flight of English football, and the 108th overall in the top tier.
Additionally, Arsenal is set to compete in the FA Cup, EFL Cup, and UEFA Champions League, marking their 39th European campaign, with high hopes of adding more silverware to their already impressive trophy cabinet.
Read More: Arsenal FC 2024-25 TV Schedule
Arsenal FC 2024-25 Squad & Roster
Key Transfers and Squad Additions
Arsenal’s summer transfer window has been active, with Mikel Arteta bolstering the squad in key areas. The club has secured several strategic signings aimed at reinforcing their challenge on multiple fronts.
David Raya (Goalkeeper, Spain)
- Transferred from: Brentford (Premier League)
- Transfer fee: £27.0 million
- Date: 4th July 2024
David Raya, the Spanish goalkeeper, joined Arsenal from Brentford in a significant transfer. Raya’s arrival was designed to add depth and competition to the goalkeeping department, providing a reliable option between the sticks. With a reputation for excellent shot-stopping abilities and composure on the ball, Raya is expected to be an integral part of Arsenal’s defensive strategy.
Riccardo Calafiori (Defender, Italy)
- Transferred from: Bologna (Serie A)
- Transfer fee: £33.6 million + £8.4 million in add-ons
- Date: 29th July 2024
Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori was brought in to strengthen Arsenal’s backline. Known for his versatility and ability to play as a left-back or center-back, Calafiori’s addition will provide Arteta with tactical flexibility. His defensive solidity and ability to contribute offensively make him a valuable asset for the Gunners.
Mikel Merino (Midfielder, Spain)
- Transferred from: Real Sociedad (La Liga)
- Transfer fee: £27.4 million + £4.2 million in add-ons
- Date: 27th August 2024
Mikel Merino’s acquisition from Real Sociedad adds creativity and physicality to Arsenal’s midfield. Merino is a dynamic midfielder known for his excellent passing range, vision, and ability to break up opposition play. His arrival is expected to enhance Arsenal’s control of the midfield and provide a link between defense and attack.
Lucas Nygaard (Goalkeeper, Denmark)
- Transferred from: Nordsjælland (Superliga)
- Transfer fee: Undisclosed
- Date: 27th June 2024
Lucas Nygaard, a promising young Danish goalkeeper, joined Arsenal from Nordsjælland. Although still early in his career, Nygaard is highly regarded for his reflexes and potential. While he may initially serve as a backup, he is seen as a long-term investment for the future of Arsenal’s goalkeeping position.
Tommy Setford (Goalkeeper, England)
- Transferred from: Ajax (Eredivisie)
- Transfer fee: £0.8 million
- Date: 21st July 2024
Tommy Setford is another young goalkeeper added to the ranks, arriving from Ajax. As a developing talent, Setford is expected to gain experience through training and occasional appearances, with an eye on the future.
Arsenal FC 2024-25 Squad Overview
The current Arsenal squad is a blend of experience and youthful exuberance. With Mikel Arteta at the helm, the team is set to continue playing an attacking style of football, with a strong emphasis on possession and pressing high up the pitch. Below is an overview of the key players in each position:
| No. | Player | Pos. | Age | HT | WT | Nationality |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22 | David Raya | G | 28 | 6′ 0″ | 174 lbs | Spain |
| 32 | Neto | G | 35 | 6′ 3″ | 183 lbs | Brazil |
| 36 | Tommy Setford | G | 18 | 6′ 1″ | — | England |
| 2 | William Saliba | D | 23 | 6′ 4″ | 203 lbs | France |
| 3 | Kieran Tierney | D | 27 | 5′ 10″ | 152 lbs | Scotland |
| 4 | Ben White | D | 26 | 6′ 1″ | 168 lbs | England |
| 6 | Gabriel Magalhães | D | 26 | 6′ 3″ | 172 lbs | Brazil |
| 12 | Jurriën Timber | D | 23 | 5′ 10″ | 172 lbs | Netherlands |
| 15 | Jakub Kiwior | D | 24 | 6′ 2″ | 163 lbs | Poland |
| 17 | Oleksandr Zinchenko | D | 27 | 5′ 9″ | 139 lbs | Ukraine |
| 18 | Takehiro Tomiyasu | D | 25 | 6′ 2″ | 183 lbs | Japan |
| 33 | Riccardo Calafiori | D | 22 | 6′ 2″ | 190 lbs | Italy |
| 5 | Thomas Partey | M | 31 | 6′ 1″ | 170 lbs | Ghana |
| 8 | Martin Ødegaard | M | 25 | 5′ 10″ | 150 lbs | Norway |
| 20 | Jorginho | M | 32 | 5′ 11″ | 141 lbs | Italy |
| 23 | Mikel Merino | M | 28 | 6′ 2″ | 183 lbs | Spain |
| 29 | Kai Havertz | M | 25 | 6′ 4″ | 183 lbs | Germany |
| 41 | Declan Rice | M | 25 | 6′ 2″ | 183 lbs | England |
| 49 | Myles Lewis-Skelly | M | 17 | 5′ 10″ | — | England |
| 53 | Ethan Nwaneri | M | 17 | 5′ 9″ | — | England |
| – | Raheem Sterling | F | 29 | 5′ 8″ | 150 lbs | England |
| 7 | Bukayo Saka | F | 22 | 5′ 10″ | 159 lbs | England |
| 9 | Gabriel Jesus | F | 27 | 5′ 9″ | 161 lbs | Brazil |
| 11 | Gabriel Martinelli | F | 23 | 5′ 10″ | 163 lbs | Brazil |
| 19 | Leandro Trossard | F | 29 | 5′ 8″ | 132 lbs | Belgium |
Goalkeepers:
- Aaron Ramsdale – The established first-choice goalkeeper, Ramsdale has become a fan favorite due to his shot-stopping abilities and leadership at the back.
- David Raya – Newly signed to provide competition for Ramsdale, Raya’s experience in the Premier League will be invaluable.
- Lucas Nygaard – A young talent with potential, Nygaard will look to learn from the more experienced goalkeepers.
- Tommy Setford – Another young goalkeeper with a bright future, Setford adds depth to the squad.
Defenders:
- William Saliba – The young French center-back has established himself as one of the best defenders in the league, combining physicality with technical ability.
- Ben White – A versatile defender capable of playing both as a center-back and right-back, White is a key component of Arsenal’s defensive setup.
- Gabriel Magalhães – A commanding presence in defense, Gabriel’s partnership with Saliba is the bedrock of Arsenal’s backline.
- Riccardo Calafiori – The new signing from Italy adds versatility and depth to the defensive ranks, capable of playing across the backline.
- Oleksandr Zinchenko – An experienced left-back with the ability to move into midfield, Zinchenko’s tactical intelligence is crucial to Arteta’s system.
- Takehiro Tomiyasu – A dependable right-back with defensive solidity, Tomiyasu also provides options at center-back when needed.
- Kieran Tierney – A fan favorite for his tireless work rate and crossing ability, Tierney is an essential part of the squad.
- Jakub Kiwior – The Polish defender adds depth and competition for places in the center of defense.
Midfielders:
- Martin Ødegaard (Captain) – The creative heartbeat of the team, Ødegaard’s vision and passing make him one of the most dangerous playmakers in Europe.
- Declan Rice – Arsenal’s marquee signing from the previous season, Rice’s energy and tackling ability have solidified the midfield.
- Mikel Merino – The Spanish midfielder brings creativity and physical presence, adding depth to Arsenal’s options in the middle of the park.
- Thomas Partey – A powerful midfielder with defensive attributes, Partey’s presence allows the team to maintain balance.
- Emile Smith Rowe – A versatile attacking midfielder, Smith Rowe is known for his dribbling and goal-scoring ability.
- Jorginho – The experienced Italian midfielder provides calmness and control in the midfield, especially in tight situations.
- Fabio Vieira – A creative option off the bench, Vieira’s technical ability allows him to influence games when called upon.
Forwards:
- Bukayo Saka – Arsenal’s star winger, Saka’s pace, dribbling, and finishing make him a constant threat to opposition defenses.
- Gabriel Jesus – A dynamic forward capable of playing across the front line, Jesus is known for his work rate and goal-scoring prowess.
- Gabriel Martinelli – The Brazilian winger is known for his direct running and ability to score from wide positions.
- Leandro Trossard – A versatile forward who can play on either wing or as a false nine, Trossard’s creativity and goal-scoring are key assets.
- Eddie Nketiah – A young striker with a knack for finding the net, Nketiah provides competition and depth in the striker position.
- Kai Havertz – Signed from Chelsea the previous season, Havertz is a versatile forward capable of playing in multiple attacking roles.
Tactical Outlook for 2024-25
Mikel Arteta is likely to stick with his preferred 4-3-3 formation, which has brought Arsenal considerable success in recent seasons. This system allows Arsenal to dominate possession, press high, and create numerous goal-scoring opportunities.
- Goalkeeper: Aaron Ramsdale remains the first choice, with David Raya likely to be rotated in cup competitions and some league matches.
- Defense: The back four is expected to consist of Ben White, William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhães, and Oleksandr Zinchenko, with Riccardo Calafiori and Takehiro Tomiyasu providing cover.
- Midfield: The trio of Declan Rice, Martin Ødegaard, and Mikel Merino could become the preferred midfield combination, with Thomas Partey and Jorginho offering alternative options depending on the opposition.
- Attack: The front three will likely feature Bukayo Saka on the right, Gabriel Jesus through the middle, and Gabriel Martinelli on the left, with Leandro Trossard, Kai Havertz, and Eddie Nketiah as rotational options.
Expectations for the Season
Arsenal enters the 2024-25 season with high expectations, both domestically and in Europe. The squad’s depth, bolstered by summer signings, gives Mikel Arteta the tools needed to challenge for the Premier League title, a deep run in the UEFA Champions League, and potentially secure domestic cup success.
The club’s fans are eager to see how the new additions integrate with the established stars, and whether Arsenal can finally reclaim the Premier League crown after years of near misses. The competition will be fierce, but with a well-rounded squad and a manager who understands the club’s philosophy, Arsenal is well-positioned to achieve success in the 2024-25 campaign.