Arsenal are looking to respond following their loss to Manchester United last weekend with their key leaders - the likes of Martin Odegaard, Declan Rice and Gabriel - likely to be key
Martin Odegaard, Declan Rice and Gabriel are part of the team's leadership group
Martin Odegaard, Declan Rice and Gabriel are part of the team's leadership group
View 2 Images
Arsenal will seek to end a three-game winless Premier League run and dispel any doubts when they face Leeds with their seven-man leadership group needing to rally the group.
The Gunners' loss to Manchester United last weekend, their first at the Emirates, to open up the title race once again but the likes of Martin Odegaard will need to get the team back on track domestically.
The Norwegian leads a squad that is yet to claim any silverware, but is by far and away the leader the team turn to with Odegaard winning a captaincy vote at the beginning of the season.
Arsenal are understood to have six men alongside him in the leadership group. The Telegraph reports that these are Bukayo Saka, Gabriel, Declan Rice, Mikel Merino, Jurrien Timber and David Raya. Despite being a defensive leader William Saliba is not mentioned, nor is Gabriel Jesus, a serial Premier League champion with Manchester City.
Saka is not a conventional leader but as a homegrown player, and one of the team's most impressive performers over recent years, he features.
Mikel Merino is only into his second year at the Emirates but boasts winning experience having claimed Euro 2024 with Spain. His versatility and ability to adapt shows a team first mentality whilst compatriot Martin Zubimendi has recently claimed he is the “future coach” in the squad due to his tactical knowledge.
Gabriel and Rice's inclusion doesn't come as a surprise. The centre-half has become one of the world's best in his position, coming up with numerous big moments from set pieces . Rice is viewed in a similar bracket and is often seen carrying the team from midfield.
Mikel Merino tactical IQ has been hailed
Mikel Merino tactical IQ has been hailed
View 2 Images
Timber was seen as a future captain when he was at Ajax and, now in north London, he's established himself as a regular starter across the backline.
Raya, like most goalkeepers, is an incredibly vocal presence and his rise through the footballing pyramid is seen as giving him a unique perspective that a lot of top players don't always have.
The Spaniard has gone from the Conference Premier to the Premier League and is one of the few individuals in the squad to be north of 30, adding to his experience.
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us, and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read ourPrivacy Notice.
Sky Sports discounted Premier League and EFL package
This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Content Image
Content Image