Rating the Gunners ahead of campaign opener…
Here’s how we rate Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal squad ahead of the 2014/15 Premier League season…
Wojciech Szczesny – 7.5
Proved last season that he’s capable of fulfilling his exceptional potential.
David Ospina – 7
A more than able backup, and a World Cup star.
Mathieu Debuchy – 7
One of the statistically best right-backs in the league last year, Debuchy has arrived to replace the outgoing Bacary Sagna.
Kieran Gibbs – 7
Ever improving, Gibbs could get in the England squad this season.
Per Mertesacker – 7.5
Aerially exceptional, and positionally strong, too.
Laurent Koscielny – 8
Arguably the best centre-half in the country, alongside Vincent Kompany and perhaps John Terry.
Nacho Monreal – 6.5
The Spaniard provides solid backup to Gibbs.
Calum Chambers – 6.5
Expensive, but has to prove himself at the highest level now.
Tomas Rosicky – 6.5
Ageing, but technically strong.
Mikel Arteta – 7
A solid passer, and although reactively immobile, provides a solid platform in the centre.
Mathieu Flamini – 6.5
Combative, but a little shoddy on the ball, and reckless in the tackle.
Jack Wilshere – 7.5
Has arguably not fulfilled his potential yet, but if he can stay fit, he can create, score and link up play.
Mesut Ozil – 9
There are no questions on the World Cup winner’s pedigree, but he’ll need to improve on his debut Premier League campaign showing.
Aaron Ramsey – 9
Arsenal’s best player last season, Ramsey provides industry in the centre, while remaining a constant goal threat too.
Santi Cazorla – 8
Mercurial playmaker, but might struggle for game time with the influx of attacking midfielders at Arsene Wenger’s disposal.
Lukas Podolski – 7
A very strong squad option, Podolski scored goals from the left wing when deployed.
Theo Walcott – 8.5
Unbelievable pace and a genuine goal threat. Fans will hope he’s the same on his long awaited return from injury.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain – 7.5
Immensely talented, but the young Englishman might struggle for game time this term.
Alexis Sanchez – 9
Truly world-class, and arguably the signing of the summer.
Serge Gnabry – 6.5
Could spend the season on loan, which would benefit the young German.
Joel Campbell – 6.5
Impressed at the World Cup, but is no more than a rotation option.
Olivier Giroud – 7.5
Underrated, but Giroud will need to up his level in big matches if he’s to lead Arsenal to glory this season.
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