Arsenal have secret weapon that could propel them to Premier League title
It appears that Arsenal‘s push towards the Premier League title involves more than just the players.
While key players like Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard, as well as manager Mikel Arteta, receive much praise, the significant role of players’ wives and girlfriends is also recognized in the team’s fight against Manchester City for their first top-flight title in 20 years.
The players’ support system from their loved ones was evident at the Emirates this month when Arsenal defeated Chelsea 5-0.
The joy of home fans was captured perfectly by Odegaard’s girlfriend Helene Spilling, who celebrated energetically to Shakira’s ‘Waka Waka’ song.
Spilling isn’t the only partner regularly attending games. Tolami Benson and Sophie Weber, who are partners of Bukayo Saka and Kai Havertz respectively, are also common faces in the stands, as are Milly White and Laura Trossard Hilven, wives of Ben White and Leandro Trossard.
Rice’s girlfriend Lauren Fryer and Aaron Ramsdale’s wife Georgina are also significant figures in the group, many of whom recently traveled to Munich to watch Arsenal’s ultimately disappointing second leg of the Champions League quarterfinal. The family atmosphere within the club is attributed to Arteta’s deliberate efforts to keep players relaxed and happy.
In January, Arsenal’s squad took a two-week trip to Dubai, raising some eyebrows as it followed a series of setbacks, including defeats to West Ham and Fulham. The team was also eliminated from the FA Cup by an under-strength Liverpool side.
Arteta included family members on the trip to the Middle East and organized group activities to foster team unity. Since returning, Arsenal has lost just once in the Premier League, a late home defeat to Aston Villa last month.
Sporting director Edu is also aligned with Arteta’s approach, and the Spanish manager emphasized the importance of players building close friendships and support networks. He stated that having content players helps the team perform better and fosters a stronger sense of belonging.
The concept of ‘WAGS’ in football has faced criticism, particularly during England’s 2006 World Cup campaign in Germany, when players’ partners drew attention for their high-profile behavior and extravagant spending.
The topic resurfaced during Euro 2016, which led to a high-profile legal dispute between Coleen Rooney and Rebekah Vardy.
Arsenal have secret weapon that could propel them to Premier League title
