A Shocking Decision : Arsenal’s Best Player of the Season So Far Gabriel, Bukayo Saka Declan Rice and Leah Williams: A Shocking Decision for not choosing…
Arsenal Football Club’s decision to crown *Gabriel Magalhães* as their best player of the season so far has taken many fans by surprise. Amid an array of standout performances from key figures like *Bukayo Saka*, *Leah Williamson*, and *Declan Rice*, many supporters were expecting one of these names to be the winner. Instead, Gabriel’s impressive consistency at the heart of the defence has seen him take home the accolade, leaving a divided fanbase in its wake.
### The Defenders’ Dominance
The centre-back’s performances have been rock solid, with Gabriel emerging as one of the Premier League’s most reliable defenders. His leadership at the back, strong aerial duels, and ability to read the game have all played a crucial part in Arsenal’s defensive solidity. While it’s not unusual for defenders to be overlooked in individual awards, Gabriel’s work has often gone unnoticed compared to more flashy attacking players. That said, his vital clearances, blocks, and ability to marshal the backline have proved essential in Arsenal’s push for silverware this season.
### The Saka Factor
Perhaps the most glaring omission is *Bukayo Saka*. The 22-year-old winger has been one of the club’s shining lights over the past few seasons and has continued to dazzle fans and pundits alike. Saka’s dribbling skills, vision, and penchant for scoring vital goals have made him a standout performer. His growing influence on the pitch has seen him become one of the Premier League’s most feared attackers. Many fans were hoping that Saka’s brilliance would be rewarded with the Player of the Season accolade, given his central role in Arsenal’s offensive play.
### Leah Williamson: A Defensive Force
On the women’s side, *Leah Williamson*’s absence from the conversation also left many wondering. The Arsenal captain, known for her leadership and calmness under pressure, has been instrumental in both club and country. While the spotlight often falls on goal scorers, Williamson’s consistent performances at the back have been pivotal to the club’s continued success in domestic and European competitions. Her ability to read the game and lead her side through tough moments has made her a player of immense value, despite not often making headlines like her attacking counterparts.
### Declan Rice: The Midfield General
Then, of course, there’s *Declan Rice*, the £105 million summer signing from West Ham United. As the club’s new midfield enforcer, Rice has made an immediate impact with his work rate, vision, and leadership. His ability to break up opposition attacks and distribute the ball has been key to Arsenal’s fluid play, but he has also chipped in with crucial goals and assists. With his performances continuing to improve, many fans expected Rice to be in the conversation for the best player of the season.
### Conclusion
While the decision to pick Gabriel as the best player so far might have stunned some fans, it speaks to a broader trend where certain roles—like that of a centre-back—are undervalued in individual awards. Gabriel’s consistency and importance to the team’s defensive stability have certainly earned him his place at the top, but many will continue to argue that players like Saka, Williamson, and Rice also deserve their time in the limelight. Whether this decision reflects an overall team performance or a strategic move to highlight an unsung hero, it has certainly sparked debate among
the Arsenal faithful.
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