Three Arsenal players have reportedly stepped up to join the club’s leadership group after the exits of David Luiz and William left a void in the dressing room.
The Gunners have reshaped their team over the past few transfer windows, bringing in a younger core of mainly British players, though they did lose a number of experienced, senior figures in the process.
Notably David Luiz was released at the end of last campaign when his contract expired, with the 34-year-old having provided a wealth of know-how and been a key part of the dressing room.
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Arsenal hoped other players would step up in the player’s absence and, according to The Athletic, that is exactly what has happened.
Luiz’s countryman, Gabriel, has come out from the rather large shadow of his compatriot and he has assumed more responsibility on and off the pitch, significantly improving his English.
The 23-year-old missed the first three Premier League matches of the season but has been ever-present since then, playing 90 minutes in each of the club’s last eight games.
It is no coincidence that Arsenal are unbeaten over that period, conceding only four goals, with Gabriel marshalling the back-line and also becoming a leader behind the scenes.
Another player who has featured extensively during that run is Aaron Ramsdale, with the goalkeeper’s ‘extrovert personality’ galvanising the Arsenal team.
Ramsdale has quickly become an example to the rest of the team and a vocal presence, while fellow new signing Ben White has also taken it upon himself to rally his teammates and provides another strong voice in the dressing room.
That trio have brought a fresh dynamic to the London side this season and can be seen high-fiving after goal-saving tackles or brilliant saves, forming a close bond at the base of the team.
In addition to Gabriel, White and Ramsdale increasing the winning mentality and leadership at the club, the continued development of Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe has also been described as adding to the ‘feel-good factor’ around the Emirates.
