Chelsea & Arsenal best combined 2nd XI for PL 2025/26

DM: Christian Norgaard

Christian Norgaard is a phenomenal player who became something of an unsung hero during his time at Brentford. Following his move to Arsenal, sadly, he seems to be headed the same way.

For all his talents, Norgaard will not be able to keep a regular spot in the first team ahead of Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi. This should come as no surprise – Rice and Zubimendi are among the best midfielders in the world right now.

Nevertheless, Norgaard can be relied upon to perform a solid job when he is asked to do so. Technically strong with an unending work rate, Gunners fans can take solace in the depth that they have.

CM: Mikel Merino

Mikel Merino showed his true worth to Arsenal last season. When they were struggling for options up top, Merino filled the gaps seamlessly.

Not only is he a fantastic central midfielder, his willingness to play in several, unnatural positions make him invaluable to Mikel Arteta’s squad.

A former Real Sociedad star, Merino will link up with fellow Sociedad alumni such as Martin Zubimendi and Martin Odegaard – sadly, they both have a higher standing on the Arsenal totem pole than Merino does.

CM: Andrey Santos

Sometimes it’s hard to believe, but Andrey Santos has been a Chelsea player for well over two years now, having joined the club in 2023.

His time at Chelsea has been largely categorised by loan spells with teams such as Vasco da Gama, RC Strasbourg and Nottingham Forest.

He recently made his senior debut for Chelsea in the Club World Cup, where he finally showed Blues fans what he can do. Additionally, Santos also has a pair of Brazil caps to his name.

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