Arsenal’s £38m Signing Proves to Be One of Their Best Deals of the Emirates Era

Before the disappointing 1-1 draw at Fulham over the weekend, Arsenal were riding high after a 2-0 victory over their fierce rivals, Manchester United. However, the Wednesday clash was even more significant as it marked the 500th competitive men’s game at the Emirates Stadium....CONTINUE READING>>>

Since its completion 18 years ago, the Emirates has hosted many standout players, but it’s only recently that the stadium has seen a team that is genuinely challenging for the Premier League title and capable of going far in Europe. Among the brilliant signings over the years, the current squad, especially players like Martin Ødegaard, stands out as one of the best the Emirates era has seen.

Ødegaard’s Arsenal Journey

Arsenal initially loaned Ødegaard from Real Madrid in January 2021. While his first spell wasn’t groundbreaking, with just two goals and two assists in 20 appearances, Arteta and Edu Gaspar saw potential in the Norwegian playmaker and secured his permanent transfer for £30m in the summer. That decision has proven to be a game-changer.

Since then, Ødegaard has become an essential part of Arsenal’s style of play and was named club captain in 2022 at just 23 years old. In 163 appearances, he has contributed 36 goals and 28 assists, averaging 0.39 goal involvements per match. His technical skills, vision, and leadership have made him a standout, and although he hasn’t yet led the club to a major title, his impact has been undeniable.

Jurrien Timber: A Potentially Game-Changing Signing

However, Ødegaard isn’t the only exceptional signing in the current squad. Jurrien Timber, who joined from Ajax for £38m last summer, has quickly established himself as one of the most impressive players in Arsenal’s lineup.

Although it may be premature to make bold comparisons after just one season, Timber’s contributions have been significant. As a modern full-back, he’s solid defensively and rarely beaten by opposing players. More importantly, he adds a new dimension to Arsenal’s attack. Timber’s ability to both overlap and underlap Bukayo Saka on the right is a key asset to the team, and he even scored his first goal for the club with a header against United.

What stands out most is his maturity and composure on the ball, as former manager Michael Reiziger pointed out, describing him as “one with the ball.” His consistently excellent performances make it increasingly clear that Timber could rival Ben White for a starting spot when fully fit, and he has already proven to be one of the best signings in the Emirates era.