Arsenal dressing room
Image credit: Getty Images
With the 2025/26 season fast approaching, Arsenal have revealed their official first-team squad numbers, confirming assignments for a host of summer signings and changes for familiar faces. But the absence of one player has sparked speculation over his immediate future.
Mikel Arteta heads into the new campaign with six new recruits, giving fans fresh choices for their new Adidas shirts. Star signing Viktor Gyokeres has taken the iconic No. 14 shirt, famously worn by Thierry Henry, while defender Cristhian Mosquera has inherited the No. 3 shirt from the departing Kieran Tierney.
Midfielders Martin Zubimendi and Christian Norgaard will wear No. 36 and No. 16 respectively, while Noni Madueke has claimed No. 20, left vacant after Jorginho’s move to Flamengo. In goal, Kepa Arrizabalaga has chosen No. 13, a number he previously wore at Athletic Club and Bournemouth.
Several current players have also switched numbers. With the No. 1 shirt unoccupied last season, David Raya has now stepped into the role of Arsenal’s primary custodian, following in the footsteps of the club’s legendary keepers. Rising star Ethan Nwaneri, after a breakout campaign in 2024/25, has swapped No. 53 for No. 22.
However, one name missing from the list caught the attention of supporters, Tommy Setford. The 19-year-old, who joined from Ajax in July 2024 for around £1 million, was widely expected to be part of the senior squad this term.
Tommy Setford (Image credit: Getty Images)
Reports in May suggested he had been officially promoted to third-choice goalkeeper, with images from training showing him in first-team gear and wearing a squad number. Arsenal youth expert Jeorge Bird described the omission as “strange,” noting Setford had previously confirmed his promotion.
The move has fuelled rumours of a potential loan spell to gain valuable experience. League One side Stevenage are among the clubs credited with interest, though Arsenal have so far resisted, citing his importance as cover.
The return of Karl Hein from loan and the emergence of academy product Jack Porter have created increased competition in the goalkeeping ranks, with Setford’s path to minutes potentially limited.
Setford’s development has been hindered by fitness setbacks and restricted playing time, and a loan could mirror the successful pathways of other Arsenal academy graduates. Arteta has yet to comment on the matter, but with the transfer window still open, the teenager’s next move could become one of the club’s final pieces of business before deadline day.