5 Arsenal players who deserve higher wages

Who tops the list of the most underpaid players at Arsenal?
Who tops the list of the most underpaid players at Arsenal?

#3 Gabriel Magalhaes - £50,000

Burnley v Arsenal - Premier League
Burnley v Arsenal - Premier League

With low wages of £50,000-a-week, Brazilian defender Gabriel Magalhaes is definitely one of the most underpaid players at Arsenal.

Gabriel arrived at Arsenal last season with a big reputation as a young centre-back. He was immediately instilled into the first-team and started the season well with Arsenal. But the 23-year-old contracted COVID-19 in December and has been in and out of the team since then. In total, the centre-back managed to play 32 games across all competitions last season.

The former Lille man missed the start of the 2021-22 season due to a knee injury and his absence was visible as Arsenal lost their opening three games. However Gabriel returned to the starting lineup after the international break, helping Arsenal keep two consecutive clean sheets and registering 1-0 wins on both occasions.

The Brazilian was impressive in both games and has seemingly taken his performances to the next level. Therefore, the paltry wages of £50,000-a-week seems less for Gabriel, who looks set to be a crucial part of Arsenal's defense this season.


#2 Bukayo Saka - £30,000

Arsenal v Norwich City - Premier League
Arsenal v Norwich City - Premier League

Arguably Arsenal's best player last season, Bukayo Saka has developed himself into one of the most talented youngsters in English football.

With Arsenal lacking some spark and creativity in their ranks, 20-year-old Saka stepped up for the Gunners. He was arguably the biggest positive in an otherwise disappointing season for Arsenal.

Capable of playing anywhere on the left flank, in midfield and on the right wing, Saka scored seven goals and 10 assists in 46 appearances across all competitions last term.

In a season where Arsenal's biggest stars struggled in front of goal, Saka's contributions were crucial in helping the Gunners finish eighth in the league table.

Saka's current contract, which runs till 2024 sees him earn £30,000-a-week in wages. But considering that he has arguably been Arsenal's best player over the past year or so, he definitely warrants a much better contract with improved wages.


#1 Emile Smith Rowe - £20,000

Arsenal v Sporting CP - UEFA Europa League - Group E
Arsenal v Sporting CP - UEFA Europa League - Group E

Emile Smith Rowe is easily the most underpaid player at Arsenal right now, and definitely deserves to earn more than £20,000-a-week in wages.

Since breaking into the Arsenal first-team last season, Smith Rowe has been nothing short of impressive for the Gunners. There was an immediate positive change in Arsenal's performances as soon as he became a regular in the team.

Playing as an attacking midfielder, Smith Rowe provided more fluidity to Arsenal's attack and was a key factor in the team's recovery last season.

The 21-year-old made 20 league appearances in 2020-21, scoring two goals and providing four assists.

While young academy players are generally on lower wages, Smith Rowe has already proven his worth at senior level. As such, it would be justified if he receives better wages sooner rather than later.

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