Rahul NareshArsenal have been impressive so far in the 2021/22 Premier League campaign. The youngsters have been spectacular and are delivering for the North London side.
In a team in which it looks like every player is playing their part, it becomes challenging to pick the top players. However, some have stood out in small margins for me.
Following are my picks for Arsenal’s top 5 players to watch in 2022.
Bukayo Saka
As far as youngsters go, there aren’t many better than Bukayo Saka. Mikel Arteta seems to have found Saka’s best position on the far right side, allowing the young winger to cut in and get onto his left foot.
Saka has been on fire this season, scoring six goals and providing four assists in the Premier League. He has fitted right into the philosophy Arteta is looking to employ at the club. Many forget that Saka is just 20 and is burdening the responsibility of his magnanimous club with ease. There is no questioning that he is a player to watch in Europe, let alone in Arsenal and the Premier League.
Martin Ødegaard
Halfway through the 2021/22 campaign, the Norwegian playmaker has established himself as a starter in the Arsenal eleven. Ødegaard has been prolific in providing goals from midfield along with Emile Smith Rowe. The classic number 10 now has four goals and three assists to his name in the Premier League.
Ødergaard seems to have found his feet in the last few games and is pulling the strings for Arsenal. He will be crucial to Arsenal’s return to being one of England’s best, and many will be looking forward to seeing what the Norwegian has to offer in 2022.
Emile Smith Rowe
Emile Smith Rowe is yet another Arsenal youngster who has not failed to impress in the 2021/22 campaign so far. Although he has not started any of Arsenal’s previous four Premier League games, Smith Rowe is currently the team’s highest goalscorer in the Premier League.
Not starting has caused little concern to the youngster, as he has consistently come on as a substitute and found the back of the net. It is certain that Smith Rowe will get his starts during the season and is one to watch in 2022.
Gabriel Martinelli
Arsenal fans had been calling for Gabriel Martinelli to get a consistent run in the first team for quite a while. Arteta requested patience, and when Martinelli finally got his opportunity, the young Brazilian delivered. He kicked off with a goal against West Ham United, after which he registered a brace against Leeds United.
It seems like Martinelli’s position in the first team is unquestionable. However, any slip up could see Smith Rowe make his way back and take up his role. The exciting and ever-willing Brazilian is another one to keep your eye on in 2022.
Takehiro Tomiyasu
The Japanese right-back is a reasonable shout for player of the season so far for Arsenal. Probably one of the most assured players in the Gunners backline, opposition left-wingers have found it very difficult to dominate the youngster. Tomiyasu’s height and agility also help him win his aerial duels against wingers.
Tomiyasu has proven that he can also get forward and deliver valuable crosses along with solid defensive capabilities. He has been quite effective in the Premier League, and pundits will be looking at his performances in 2022.
