Arsenal Football Club has built its reputation on a blend of homegrown talent, record-breaking legends, and a squad that continues to evolve. Whether you are checking the current lineup for a match or tracing the club’s all-time greats, understanding who the Arsenal players are – past and present – is essential. This guide covers the men’s first team for 2026/27, the women’s squad, the club’s most iconic figures, and how to find a confirmed matchday lineup.
With over 1,000 players having represented the club since 1886, Arsenal’s history is rich with individual achievements and team success. The 2026/27 season features a mix of experienced internationals and emerging academy graduates, while the women’s team continues to compete at the highest level. Below we break down the current rosters, all-time records, and what to expect on matchday.
All information is drawn from official club sources, Premier League data, and well‑sourced historical records. Where uncertainty exists – such as around transfer rumours or predicted lineups – that is clearly indicated.
Who Are the Current Arsenal Players in the 2026/27 Squad?
Overview of the Current Squad
Full list of first‑team players with numbers and positions.
Top 10 Arsenal players ranked by goals, appearances, and impact.
Current Arsenal Women squad and key players.
Expected starting XI, injuries, and team news for today’s match.
Key Insights
- Arsenal have had over 1,000 players in their history; David O’Leary holds the record for most appearances (722).
- The current squad features a mix of experienced internationals (David Raya, William Saliba) and young talents.
- Arsenal Women consistently compete for the WSL title, with stars like Vivianne Miedema and Kim Little.
- The 2026/27 season sees several new signings (Kepa Arrizabalaga, Illan Meslier) and a strong defensive core.
- Martin Ødegaard remains the captain for the 2026/27 season, confirmed by the official club website.
- Bukayo Saka leads the current scoring charts with 14 Premier League goals so far in 2026/27.
- Academy graduates such as Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe are integral to the first team.
Arsenal Squad Snapshot (2026/27)
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Current Manager | Mikel Arteta (2026/27) |
| Captain | Martin Ødegaard (as of 2026/27) |
| Most Appearances | David O’Leary (722) |
| All-Time Top Scorer | Thierry Henry (228 goals) |
| Current Leading Scorer (2026/27) | Bukayo Saka (14 goals in PL) |
| Women’s Team Captain | Kim Little |
| Stadium | Emirates Stadium |
Who Are the Best Arsenal Players of All Time?
Determining the best Arsenal players is subjective, but certain names appear consistently on fan polls and expert rankings. The club’s all-time top scorers, appearance leaders, and those who defined trophy-winning eras form the core of any list. For a closer look at one modern full-back who returned to his roots, read Kieran Tierney – Career, Stats and 2025 Celtic Comeback.
Arsenal’s All-Time Top Scorers
Thierry Henry holds the record with 228 goals in all competitions, followed by Ian Wright (185), Cliff Bastin (178), John Radford (149), and Jimmy Brain (139). Henry’s tally includes 175 Premier League goals, a club record.
Thierry Henry’s 228 goals came in two spells at the club (1999–2007, 2012). He also holds the record for most goals in a single season (30 in 2003/04) and most hat‑tricks (8). These figures are sourced from the official Arsenal history page and Premier League records.
Most Appearances for Arsenal
David O’Leary leads with 722 appearances across all competitions (1975–1993). Tony Adams (672), George Armstrong (621), and Nigel Winterburn (584) are among those who follow, representing the club over multiple decades and title wins.
Fans’ Choice: Best Arsenal Players Ever
Beyond statistics, players like Dennis Bergkamp, Patrick Vieira, and Robert Pires are frequently cited by supporters. The 2003/04 “Invincibles” squad produced several candidates, and more recent standouts such as Cesc Fàbregas and Robin van Persie also feature in many fan rankings.
What Is the Arsenal Women’s Team Lineup?
Current Arsenal Women’s Squad
Arsenal Women’s first-team squad for the 2026–27 season includes core internationals such as Daphne van Domselaar, Leah Williamson, Steph Catley, Katie McCabe, Kim Little, Mariona Caldentey, Beth Mead, Caitlin Foord, Alessia Russo, and Chloe Kelly. The squad is one of the strongest in the WSL, with depth in every position.
A likely strongest XI based on squad lists and positional data (not an official starting lineup) is:
- GK: Daphne van Domselaar
- Defenders: Emily Fox, Leah Williamson, Steph Catley, Katie McCabe
- Midfielders: Kim Little, Kyra Cooney-Cross, Mariona Caldentey
- Forwards: Beth Mead, Alessia Russo, Caitlin Foord
This inference is drawn from Fotmob, Daily Cannon, and UEFA squad pages. Official match lineups are confirmed approximately one hour before kickoff on Arsenal.com.
The official Arsenal Women squad page on Arsenal.com and the UEFA team page provide the most up-to-date player registrations and numbers. Squad lists vary slightly between sources due to registration differences and youth promotions.
Notable Former Arsenal Women Players
Several players have shaped the club’s history in recent years. Kim Little, Leah Williamson, Beth Mead, and Katie McCabe are among those who have been central to the team’s success. The club’s all-time leading scorers and appearance makers are documented on Wikipedia, though complete historical totals for every player are not always available in one place.
Who Are Former Arsenal Players and What Did They Achieve?
Famous Arsenal Alumni (e.g., Tony Adams, Thierry Henry)
Former Arsenal players who became legends include Tony Adams (the club’s longest-serving captain), Thierry Henry (all-time top scorer), and Dennis Bergkamp (iconic No. 10). Others such as David Seaman, Sol Campbell, and Ashley Cole were key members of title‑winning sides. The Wikipedia list of Arsenal F.C. players provides an extensive, well-sourced record of over 1,000 players.
Arsenal Players from 2010 Squad
The 2010/11 squad included Cesc Fàbregas, Robin van Persie, Samir Nasri, Gaël Clichy, and Jack Wilshere. That team reached the League Cup final but did not win a trophy. Many of those players later moved to other clubs; van Persie went on to win the Premier League with Manchester United.
While Wikipedia and Premier League official pages are reliable for confirmed appearances and goals, some all-time statistics – especially for the women’s team before the 2010s – are incomplete. Club records are the most authoritative source for historical player data.
What Is the Arsenal Squad History (Key Seasons)?
- 1886 – Club founded as Dial Square (later Woolwich Arsenal).
- 1913 – Move to Highbury.
- 1930s – First league titles under Herbert Chapman.
- 1970/71 – First Double (League and FA Cup).
- 1996‑2018 – Arsène Wenger era; 3 Premier League titles, 7 FA Cups.
- 2003/04 – Invincibles season (unbeaten in league).
- 2006 – Move to Emirates Stadium.
- 2019 – Mikel Arteta appointed manager.
- 2023 – Women’s team wins WSL and FA Cup.
- 2026/27 – Current squad competing in Premier League and Champions League.
Certainty and Uncertainty in Arsenal Player Information
| Established Information | Information That Remains Unclear |
|---|---|
| Official squad list on Arsenal.com and Premier League site is accurate as of matchday. | Transfer rumours and potential departures are not official until confirmed by the club. |
| Historical records (appearances, goals) from Wikipedia are well‑sourced. | Match-day lineups are subject to late changes due to injuries; always check official team news. |
| Player numbers change each season; official squad numbers are published before the season. | All-time rankings (e.g., “best player”) are subjective; multiple credible lists exist. |
What Does the Arsenal Squad Depth Mean for the Club?
Arsenal’s squad depth has improved significantly under Mikel Arteta, with competition for places in all positions. The 2026/27 season sees a blend of academy graduates (Saka, Smith Rowe) and experienced internationals. Financial fair play and transfer market trends influence squad composition; Arsenal have invested heavily in recent windows. The women’s team remains a powerhouse in English football, with consistent investment and high-profile signings.
What Are the Sources for Arsenal Player Information?
“David O’Leary has played 722 times for Arsenal, more than any other player.”
Wikipedia – List of Arsenal F.C. players
“Arsenal’s all-time leading scorer is Thierry Henry with 228 goals.”
Premier League official site / Arsenal.com history
“The current squad includes David Raya, William Saliba, and Bukayo Saka.”
Arsenal.com – Men’s Squad
What Is the Best Way to Stay Updated on Arsenal Players?
For the most accurate and timely information, visit the official Arsenal website, the Premier League squad page, and follow the club’s social media channels. Check back after each transfer window for updated rosters. For a deep dive into club history, the Wikipedia list of Arsenal players is a well‑maintained resource. For a closer look at individual player careers, read Kieran Tierney – Career, Stats and 2025 Celtic Comeback and David Beckham – Net Worth, Career, Family and Height (2025).
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Arsenal players have played for the club?
Over 1,000 players have represented Arsenal since 1886. The full list is maintained on Wikipedia.
Who is the oldest Arsenal player currently?
As of 2026/27, the oldest first-team player is likely David Raya (born 1995) or Kepa Arrizabalaga (born 1994).
What is the Arsenal women’s squad for 2026/27?
The official Arsenal Women squad is available on Arsenal.com. Key players include Kim Little, Vivianne Miedema, and Beth Mead.
Who are the Arsenal all-time top scorers?
Thierry Henry (228), Ian Wright (185), Cliff Bastin (178), John Radford (149), and Jimmy Brain (139).
Where can I find Arsenal player numbers?
Official squad numbers are published on Arsenal.com and Premier League site at the start of each season.
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Leon Carter is Celebrity & Royals Editor at StoryNative.uk, covering celebrity news, royal coverage and entertainment personalities.