Arsenal’s season has sparked debate around individual awards, tactical strengths and their chances on the biggest stage.
With Mikel Arteta’s side competing for major honours, performances across the pitch continue to shape discussions around Player of the Year, while their defensive record and set-piece threat remain key talking points.
Speaking exclusively to ReadArsenal via BetGoodwin, Stefan Schwarz addressed a range of topics, including the Champions League final and set-pieces.
Declan Rice leads Arsenal Player of the Year debate
Schwarz highlighted three standout performers but believes Declan Rice edges the race.
“Declan, David Raya & Gabriel would be my top three and I just think Declan Rice would pip this for me. So consistent and so influential in games, he really is the heartbeat of the team and without him Arsenal wouldn’t be in the position they are in now.
“But it’s very close as David Raya has been excellent when called upon and Gabriel is a warrior at the back.”
Rice has driven Arsenal’s midfield control throughout the season, which is why Arsenal fans responded to Bruno Fernandes’s comments about Rice, while Raya’s reliability and Gabriel’s defensive presence have also played major roles in the club’s success.
Declan Rice is the only midfielder in the Premier League this season with:
◉ 500+ accurate passes ending in final 1/3
◉ 100+ duels won
◉ 100+ possessions won
◉ 50+ chances created
◉ 30+ interceptions
◉ 15+ big chances created
The perfect all-round player. 👏 pic.twitter.com/fMX85Qk1p8
— Squawka (@Squawka) May 14, 2026
Arsenal backed ahead of Champions League final test
Schwarz believes Arsenal head into the Champions League final with a genuine opportunity, particularly given their defensive strength.
“Arsenal have conceded by far the least amount of goal in the Champions League this season. They are yet to be beaten in the competition and must go into the final with a really big chance.
“They have the experience from last year which will definitely mean a lot, plus if they come into the game on the back of a Premier League win, this boost will be massive.
“So I think Arsenal can do it yes. But you are coming up against a superb attacking force from PSG. Dembele, Doue especially will cause Arsenal problems, but they have talent all over the pitch to hurt Arsenal.
“But you have to think Arsenal’s defence can be strong.”
Arsenal’s structure without the ball has defined their European run, especially considering how Arsenal fans reacted ahead of the Champions League final, although PSG’s attacking quality will test that resilience.
Set-pieces give Arsenal another attacking edge
Set-pieces continue to influence matches at the highest level, and Schwarz pointed to the detail behind Arsenal’s approach.
“I just think it’s small margins and you are seeing teams trying to use these to create opportunity to score, rather than just hit the ball in the box and hope.
“I believe there is a method to a corner kick now where some teams are really putting extra effort in to create a clearer opportunity. You are seeing different looks at a set piece and it’s clearly helping teams.
“I don’t think it’s an obsession, it’s just finding ways to create a goal scoring opportunity.”
Arsenal’s work in these situations has added another layer to their attack, often turning tight games in their favour.