Arsenal’s 2024–25 season has been a masterclass in tactical versatility, but the narrative often fixates on the same names: Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, and the defensive anchor of William Saliba. Yet beneath the surface lies a squad brimming with underrated talents whose contributions are just as pivotal—if not more so—to the club’s resurgence. These players don’t just fill roles; they redefine them, operating with a fluidity that belies their individual brilliance.
Take Bukayo Saka, for instance. The England international’s goal-scoring prowess is undeniable, but his ability to dictate play in the final third—whether through precise through balls, pinpoint crosses, or the occasional long-range strike—has made him a constant threat. Yet even Saka’s impact is overshadowed by the likes of Raphinha, whose £24 million signing has been a bargain beyond measure. The Brazilian’s versatility as a left-winger or false nine has been instrumental in Arsenal’s attacking options, yet his consistency in delivering when it matters most remains understated. Meanwhile, Anthony Gordon’s emergence as a top-tier striker—currently among the Premier League’s most prolific finishers—has flown largely under the radar, despite his ability to single-handedly dictate games.
Defensively, the story is no different. Gabriel Magalhães, the Brazilian full-back, has become Arsenal’s most dynamic wingback, blending overlapping runs with defensive solidity in a way that mirrors the best modern full-backs. His arrival has elevated Arsenal’s attacking options while maintaining defensive stability, yet his stock remains tied to the club’s broader success rather than individual accolades. Similarly, Eberechi Eze’s arrival has added a much-needed creative spark to the midfield, though his role as a box-to-box player is often overshadowed by the more traditional playmakers. Then there’s Moisés Caicedo, Chelsea’s most important player, whose tactical intelligence and work rate make him a linchpin in any midfield—yet his influence is rarely discussed outside of Stamford Bridge.
The underrating extends to the defensive line as well. William Saliba’s leadership and composure under pressure are unquestioned, but his ability to dictate the tempo of games from the back is often overlooked in favor of his defensive prowess. Meanwhile, Ben White’s adaptability—whether as a right-back or centre-half—has been a cornerstone of Arsenal’s defensive flexibility, yet his contributions are rarely singled out for praise. Even Declan Rice, the midfield maestro, operates in the shadow of his more flamboyant peers, yet his ability to control games with precision and vision is what truly separates Arsenal from their rivals.
What these players share is a quiet confidence in their abilities, a refusal to be defined by the noise around them. In a squad where every position is filled with world-class talent, their underrating is almost a testament to Arsenal’s depth. But as the Premier League’s competitive balance continues to shift, these hidden gems may soon find themselves in the spotlight—if not for their individual brilliance, then for the simple fact that they’ve been carrying the club’s ambitions long before the headlines caught up.
