Age: 24
Nationality: Polish
Position: Goalkeeper
Squad no. 1
Height: 6ft 5
Interesting Fact: Szczesny’s father was once sent off for punching Roberto Mancini in the face
Wojciech Szczesny has been at the club for almost a decade now and has firmly established himself as number one in North London. He got his first big chance in 2010 when Lukas Fabianski and Manuel Almunia were both injured, with Szczesny deputising in a 1-0 defeat at Old Trafford. Since then, he’s never looked back and has made the first-team spot firmly his own.
Szczesny picked up the Premier League Golden Glove for the most clean-sheers in the league last term (shared with Chelsea’s Petr Cech) and is considered a vital part of Arsene Wenger’s team. The hope now is that he can push on, continue his rise and establish himself as the best goalkeeper in the league.
How much will he play?
The Polish goalkeeper will be an ever-present figure in the starting line-up this term, except for when he is rested or injured, and he is expected to shine once again. Szczesny will feature in the Premier League and the Champions League- but he could be rested for the FA Cup campaign, like he was year for Arsenal’s successful run in the competition.
How well will he play?
Szczesny will command his area throughout the season and with a strong line in front of him, he should be able to keep a vast number of clean sheets once again. His aim is likely to be continue with the progress he made last year and this time win the Golden Glove award outright. He will also be central to Arsenal’s Champions League campaign, as he will have a much more important part to play in such a difficult group.
Read: Report cards for the whole Arsenal squad
Positioning: 8/10
Shot-Stopping: 9/10
Catching: 7/10
Reflexes: 8/10
Kicking: 7/10
Read: David Ospina – report card
Read: Damian Martinez – report card
Current value: £14m
Potential value: £22m
Overall Rating: 8/10