While it is easy to give credit to the best players of the Mikel Arteta era at Arsenal, some players have gone under the radar for the North London club during that time.
There have been some terrible signings for Arsenal since the Spanish coach joined back in 2019, too, but a few Gunners during that time have gone somewhat uncredited for impressive stints with the team.
The 2025/26 season alone has seen players who do not have perfect relationships with the club show up at vital moments—for example, Kai Havertz scoring the winning goal against Burnley that saw Arsenal win the league title.
With that said, here are the five most underrated players who have been at Arsenal since Arteta joined the club, ranked.
5 – Jakub Kiwior
Back when Arsenal signed Jakub Kiwior in January 2023 from Spezia, many expected him to be little more than a squad player.
However, the Pole repeatedly stepped in during times where other defenders were injured at the club and performed at a level that helped Arsenal. Comfortable at centre-back and left-back, Kiwior rarely received headlines, but Arteta consistently trusted the now 26-year-old in high-pressure situations, such as the Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid in 2025.
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4 – Takehiro Tomiyasu
Injuries truly did prevent Takehiro Tomiyasu from receiving the recognition he deserved at Arsenal.
At his best, he was one of Arsenal’s most reliable defenders, capable of excelling on either flank or in central defence. His tactical intelligence and defensive discipline made him a favourite of Arteta, even if the spells where he was consistently in the first-team were all too limited.
3 – Jorginho
The reaction to Jorginho arriving from Chelsea was one of scepticism, yet the veteran midfielder became one of Arteta’s most influential dressing-room figures.
His leadership, game management and ability to dictate tempo often brought calm to Arsenal’s midfield, and now many supporters view the £12m deal as one of the best budget signings of the Arteta era.
2 – Leandro Trossard
Few players have delivered more important moments for Arsenal while receiving less appreciation than Leandro Trossard.
Whether starting or coming off the bench, the Belgian has consistently contributed goals, assists and decisive performances since joining the club from Brighton in 2023. His efficiency in front of goal and versatility across the front line have made him one of the club’s most vital additions of recent years.
1 – Ben White
The £50m fee Arsenal paid Brighton for Ben White was heavily frowned upon back in in 2021. Fast forward a few years and he has been one of the Premier League’s most complete defenders, even if his playing time has lessened.
Whether at centre-back or right-back, mostly the latter, White’s consistency, availability and understanding with Bukayo Saka have been crucial to Arsenal’s rise in recent times. It is important to mention that he is appreciated by Arsenal supporters, but outside North London he still does not receive the credit his performances warrant.