Mohamed Elneny fully deserves his new Arsenal contract

Mohamed Elneny could potentially be the unsung hero should Arsenal do what many expected to be a pipe-dream at the start of the campaign, secure a top-four finish. Over the last month, the 29-year-old midfielder has perhaps been one of the most critical inclusions to the Gunners setup alongside Eddie Nketiah.

When Thomas Partey was injured, many thought Arsenal’s European dreams were over. The absence of the Ghanaian’s presence and impact on games raised concerns that the Gunners could simply fall apart in midfield.

Having been an unused substitute in the ten games leading up to the away clash against Chelsea, Elneny was no more than a bit-part player. However, since his inclusion, he has kept things neat in the center of midfield, and his partnership with Granit Xhaka has blossomed.

He goes about his business quietly, keeping hold of possession, moving the team forward, and keeping everything in his wheelhouse. There are no marauding runs forward, fancy bits of skill or overly extravagant passes – although his progressive passing has improved dramatically and he now looks beyond – he keeps it simple, oozes an aura of calmness, and knows his capabilities and limitations. His incredible stamina and work rate shouldn’t be overlooked either.

From outcast to key player, Mohamed Elneny deserves his new Arsenal contract for the role he’s played in keeping Champions League dreams alive

In the four-game stretch proceeding with Partey’s injury, one could argue that Arsenal has not missed the Ghanaian in the midfield. Elneny has kept things ticking over nicely despite the void he left behind.

Against Leeds he was squeaky clean in possession, quick to nip into a tackle and win possession back, and provided defensive cover for the back four, predominantly operating as the lone No.6 and not in a double pivot. That is an awe-inspiring feat, given what the team looks like with Partey in it and general consensus on the Egyptian just a few weeks prior.

He is almost what Rob Holding is for the defense in midfield. Can come in after months of no football, slot in and do a job for the team.

There are no bells and whistles about him as a person either. He keeps quiet, keeps his head down, and keeps working hard for the team to be the best version of himself as a footballer. Seemingly on the outer and essentially out the door, he has clawed his way back into the hearts and minds of Gunners fans worldwide.

Is he a starter? No. Nor is he third choice, but he is a consummate professional on the pitch, and his performances of late need to be recognized as Arsenal’s late Champions League push has had a great deal to do with him. Many will point out that Nketiah, Bukayo Saka, and the like deserve all the plaudits, and while that is absolutely true in most cases, the Egyptian’s job in the heart of the midfield cannot be understated.

With Arsenal set to be in four competitions, Mikel Arteta will likely call on the 29-year-old a fair amount next season. His performances have been so impressive that Arsenal is looking at extending his contract, possibly even a two-year deal. That is more than deserved. His impending re-signing is also essential for squad rotation next season.

Elneny deserves his new contract and the praise currently coming his way. With the Gunners’ season teetering on the edge of disaster just a month ago, his inclusion has given a degree of confidence heading into games that have not necessarily been there in years previous.

The wayside would have easily swept the midfield with Granit Xhaka and Elneny as a pairing. Still, both have been professional and diligent in their task with the powerhouse presence of Partey.

If Arsenal does, in fact, secure Champions League qualification this season, then the impact and form of Elneny over the last couple of months should not be forgotten. To stay on board and be content being a fourth choice option, Arsenal can’t go wrong. Elneny deserves this contract.