Arsenal’s Bright Future Amid Current Challenges
While Arsenal may be facing a tough period, the future looks promising for the club. Under Mikel Arteta’s leadership, the team has been built with a mix of academy talent, underappreciated gems, and high-profile signings. Players like Bukayo Saka, Ethan Nwaneri, and Myles Lewis-Skelly are set to be key figures in the first team for years to come, while William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães have established themselves as world-class defenders.
Even players like Martin Ødegaard, who is experiencing a dip in form this season, and Declan Rice, Arsenal’s record signing, are expected to make significant contributions in the coming years. Interestingly, one of Arteta’s most debated signings is now valued higher than both Ødegaard and Rice combined.
The Valuations of Ødegaard and Rice
This season has been underwhelming for Ødegaard. The Arsenal captain has managed just three goals and six assists in 28 appearances, averaging a goal involvement every 245 minutes. Despite his recent struggles, his past performances have earned him two consecutive Player of the Year awards, and the CIES Football Observatory values him at approximately £73m.
Rice, on the other hand, is valued at £90m by CIES, slightly less than the £105m Arsenal paid for him in 2023. The midfielder has adapted well to his new role at Arsenal, becoming a key player with his ball-winning and progressing abilities. His teammates have even nicknamed him “the horse” for his tireless work rate.
Arteta’s Most Valuable Signing
While players like Saka and Saliba are crucial to Arsenal’s success, neither was signed by Arteta. The most valuable signing under the Spaniard’s tenure is Kai Havertz, who was brought in for £65m in 2023. Despite mixed opinions, the CIES Football Observatory values Havertz at a staggering £108m, making him worth £35m more than Ødegaard and £18m more than Rice.
Havertz’s value can be attributed to his versatility and potential. While he has faced criticism for missed chances, he has shown strong performances when played as a central striker. Last season, he scored 15 goals and provided 5 assists in 34 appearances, making him Arsenal’s top scorer before his hamstring injury.
At just 25 years old and with a contract running until 2028, Havertz still has room to grow. Arteta has described him as a “superb” player, and his ability to contribute in multiple roles makes him a valuable asset.
Conclusion
Kai Havertz remains a polarizing figure among fans, but his potential and versatility make him a key player for Arsenal’s future. While Ødegaard and Rice are vital to the team, Havertz’s value and promise suggest he could play an even bigger role in the years to come. Despite current challenges, Arsenal’s talent-rich squad ensures a bright future for the club.
Related: Arsenal’s £265,000-per-week star could now be out injured until 2026
He faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
