Five Arsenal stars have today been included in the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA)’s Premier League Team of the Year, which was voted on by players themselves.
Many had expected the champions, Manchester City, to once again dominate the team – but the Cityzens had just four inclusions in the 11-man team, compared to the five Arsenal representatives.
Arsenal’s representatives in the PFA Premier League Team of the Year were David Raya, defensive duo William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães, Declan Rice and also club captain Martin Ødegaard.
The rest of the team was made up by Liverpool defender Virgil Van Dijk, Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins and a Manchester City quartet consisting of Kyle Walker, Rodri, Phil Foden and, of course, Golden Boot winner Erling Haaland.
The team is reflective of the progress made by Arsenal in recent seasons and also serves as proof of just how far the Gunners pushed Manchester City last season – despite ultimately missing out on what would have been their first Premier League title in 20 years.
Fans have been reacting to the news on social media, and one such supporter voiced their elation over Gabriel’s inclusion, saying: “Gabriel Magalhaes finally getting this accolades. By far and beyond the best defender in the league last year. What a player, we are so lucky to have him, man,” on X (formerly Twitter).
Some fans were less happy, however, largely due to the exclusion of Bukayo Saka, with one person saying: “How Saka didn’t get in here, we will never know.”
Arsenal have started their 2024/25 campaign with a perfect 2-0 home win over Wolves, as they look to once again challenge for the Premier League title.
