Arsenal legend Sol Campbell reveals the seven current Gunners stars who would’ve been good enough to get into the Invincibles squad

Sol Campbell, one of the stalwarts of Arsenal’s historic ‘Invincibles’ squad, has shared his thoughts on how seven players from the current Arsenal lineup could have made their mark on that legendary team. The statement has sparked excitement and debate among fans and pundits alike, drawing comparisons between the past and present eras of the Gunners. Campbell’s assessment bridges a nostalgic look at one of the greatest sides in football history and the optimism surrounding Mikel Arteta’s current squad.

The ‘Invincibles’ season of 2003-04 is a golden chapter in Arsenal’s history. Under the astute management of Arsène Wenger, the Gunners achieved an unprecedented feat, going an entire Premier League season unbeaten. This remarkable accomplishment cemented their legacy in football lore, with players like Thierry Henry, Patrick Vieira, Dennis Bergkamp, and Sol Campbell himself being hailed as icons of the game. It was a team that epitomized skill, resilience, and unity, setting a benchmark that few sides in football have come close to matching.

Fast forward to 2025, and Arsenal fans are witnessing a renaissance of sorts. Mikel Arteta has assembled a squad that has rekindled hopes of Premier League glory. While replicating the achievements of the ‘Invincibles’ is an almost insurmountable task, there is growing belief that the current crop of players possesses the potential to bring the league title back to the Emirates. Campbell’s recognition of seven current Arsenal stars as players who could have featured in the ‘Invincibles’ squad underscores the quality and promise within Arteta’s team.

Among the seven players Campbell highlighted, Bukayo Saka is arguably the most obvious inclusion. Saka has emerged as a generational talent, a player whose impact on the pitch belies his age. The versatile winger, known for his pace, creativity, and composure, has been instrumental in Arsenal’s resurgence. Campbell praised Saka’s technical ability and mental strength, qualities that would have made him a valuable asset even in the star-studded ‘Invincibles’ lineup. His knack for delivering in crucial moments, combined with his relentless work ethic, echoes the traits of Arsenal legends like Robert Pirès and Freddie Ljungberg.

William Saliba is another name on Campbell’s list, and for good reason. The French center-back has been a revelation since returning to Arsenal after his loan spells. Saliba’s composure on the ball, positional awareness, and physical dominance have drawn comparisons to Campbell himself. In a defensive partnership alongside Kolo Touré or Sol Campbell, Saliba’s presence would have undoubtedly added a layer of solidity to an already formidable backline. His ability to read the game and execute crucial interceptions aligns with the defensive excellence that defined the ‘Invincibles’.

Martin Ødegaard, Arsenal’s captain and creative linchpin, also earned Campbell’s endorsement. Ødegaard’s vision, passing range, and ability to dictate the tempo of a game have made him one of the Premier League’s standout midfielders. Campbell acknowledged that while the midfield of the ‘Invincibles’ boasted the commanding presence of Vieira and the industrious Gilberto Silva, Ødegaard’s creativity would have provided an additional dimension to their play. His leadership on and off the pitch mirrors the qualities that Wenger valued in his midfield generals.

Gabriel Magalhães, the Brazilian center-back, is another player who has impressed Campbell. Gabriel’s aggressive style of defending, coupled with his aerial prowess, has made him a cornerstone of Arteta’s defense. Campbell noted that Gabriel’s partnership with Saliba has been crucial to Arsenal’s recent success, and his attributes would have made him a valuable member of the ‘Invincibles’ squad. His ability to combine physicality with technical proficiency is reminiscent of the balance that defined Arsenal’s defense during their unbeaten season.

Gabriel Martinelli, the dynamic Brazilian forward, has also caught Campbell’s eye. Martinelli’s directness, speed, and flair make him a nightmare for defenders. Campbell suggested that Martinelli’s tenacity and goal-scoring instinct would have complemented the attacking brilliance of Henry and Bergkamp. His relentless pressing and ability to exploit spaces would have added a new dimension to the ‘Invincibles’ attack, further enhancing their reputation as one of the most feared sides in football history.

In goal, David Raya has emerged as a key figure for Arsenal, and Campbell believes he has what it takes to stand alongside the likes of Jens Lehmann. Raya’s shot-stopping ability, distribution, and command of the penalty area have been vital to Arsenal’s defensive stability. Campbell acknowledged that while Lehmann was a pivotal figure in the ‘Invincibles’ season, Raya’s modern goalkeeping style would have brought an added element of versatility to the team.

Finally, Jurrien Timber, despite his injury setbacks, has impressed Campbell with his versatility and composure. The Dutch defender’s ability to play as a full-back or center-back, combined with his technical ability, makes him a valuable asset. Campbell noted that Timber’s adaptability and tactical intelligence would have made him a useful player in Wenger’s system, capable of filling multiple roles and providing cover in key areas.

Campbell’s comments come at a time when Arsenal fans are drawing parallels between the past and present. The 2003-04 ‘Invincibles’ were a team that blended individual brilliance with collective cohesion, and their achievements remain unmatched in the Premier League era. The current Arsenal squad, while still a work in progress, has shown flashes of similar potential. Under Arteta’s guidance, the team has developed a clear identity, characterized by high-intensity pressing, fluid attacking play, and defensive solidity.

However, Campbell’s endorsement also highlights the challenges of comparing eras. Football has evolved significantly since the days of the ‘Invincibles’, with changes in tactics, fitness levels, and the overall competitiveness of the Premier League. While players like Saka, Saliba, and Ødegaard have excelled in the modern game, it is difficult to predict how they would have fared in the physical and fast-paced environment of early 2000s English football.

Nevertheless, Campbell’s recognition of these seven players is a testament to the strides Arsenal have made under Arteta. The club has endured a challenging period since their last Premier League title, marked by managerial changes and inconsistent performances. The emergence of a new generation of stars has reignited hope among the Arsenal faithful, and Campbell’s comments serve as a reminder of the potential within the current squad.

For fans, the idea of blending the best of the ‘Invincibles’ with the current lineup is an intriguing thought experiment. Imagining a team that combines the attacking prowess of Henry and Bergkamp with the creativity of Ødegaard, or the defensive solidity of Campbell and Touré with the composure of Saliba, is a tantalizing prospect. While such a scenario remains in the realm of fantasy, it underscores the timeless appeal of football and the enduring legacy of the ‘Invincibles’.

As Arsenal continue their quest for Premier League glory, the comparisons to the ‘Invincibles’ will persist. Campbell’s acknowledgment of the current squad’s talent is a positive sign, suggesting that the club is on the right path. While matching the achievements of the 2003-04 team may be an unrealistic expectation, the current Arsenal side has the potential to carve out its own legacy and inspire a new generation of fans.

In conclusion, Sol Campbell’s recognition of seven current Arsenal players as potential ‘Invincibles’ reflects both the quality of the current squad and the enduring legacy of the 2003-04 team. It is a reminder of the high standards set by Wenger’s men and a source of inspiration for Arteta’s team as they strive to write their own chapter in Arsenal’s illustrious history. The journey ahead is challenging, but with players like Saka, Saliba, and Ødegaard leading the way, the future looks bright for the Gunners.