The best German players to play for Arsenal

Arsenal are one of the most historic clubs in world football. While they have prided themselves on their production of local young players, they were also one of the earliest adopters of foreign transfers. Particularly in the 21st century, they have been home to some incredible German players.

Since Germany is one of the hubs for creating the most talented players in the world, it makes sense that Arsenal would cross paths with the European country on a few occasions. After all, they have had aspirations in the past of being the biggest clubs in the world, so they must consider talent from all over.

That said, let's take a look through the Arsenal history archives and recall some of the best German players to play for Arsenal.

The best German players to play for Arsenal

5. Lukas Podolski

Despite being born in Poland, Lukas Podolski was the grandchild of Silesian grandparents. Therefore, he was eligible to play for both Poland and Germany at international level, ultimately choosing Germany.

Lukas Podolski was a tremendous player for Arsenal and if he were remembered for one attribute, it would have to be his rifle of a left foot. Not many players could shoot with that much ferocity, let alone left-footed players. Always a loyal player for Arsenal who still shows support to this day, Podolski had to make this list.

4. Bernd Leno

Bernd Leno's time at Arsenal ended in an unfortunate manner. After being one of the club's best players during their worst period, Leno was forced out of the starting lineup by Aaron Ramsdale. However, Arsenal fans will only recall good memories of Bernd Leno. As eluded to, Leno provided a safety blanket to the back-line and winning the Community Shield remains one of his highlights.

3. Per Mertesacker

A former captain of Arsenal, Per Mertesacker personified everything it takes to be an Arsenal player and he even returned to the club to help out as academy manager after he hung up his boots.

Mertesacker won three FA Cup trophies with Arsenal but perhaps the most notable was in the 2017 final, when he was a late introduction to the team who beat Chelsea. He made several important tackles during the match and solidified himself as a club legend by winding up Diego Costa.

2. Mesut Ozil

Mesut Ozil's time at Arsenal was not covered in glory but he still produced some of his best displays in an Arsenal shirt. The Germany international redefined what it meant to be an attacking midfield and with his plethora of assists, set a new standard at the club. In many ways, Ozil was a wizard with the ball at his feet and he is one of the best German players of all time.

1. Jens Lehmann

Jens Lehmann was a member of the infamous Arsenal Invincible side who won the only golden Premier League trophy to date. Without a doubt, he is one of the best goalkeepers in Arsenal's history and he even showed his commitment to the club when he came out of retirement to help out during an injury crisis. A club legend by every definition of the word.