Two Arsenal stars nominated for Ballon d'Or award

Arsenal duo Declan Rice and Viktor Gyokeres have been nominated for the Ballon d'Or award this year.

Rice had an underwhelming start to the previous campaign with the Gunners, but he had a brilliant second half to the season.

The England international managed 19 goal contributions including two world-class free-kicks against Real Madrid.

Hence, his inclusion in the Ballon d'Or shortlist does not surprise us.

Gyokeres' name is likewise unsurprising. The Swede was exceptional for Sporting CP over the course of the 2024/25 season.

The 26-year-old accumulated a staggering tally of 54 goals and 13 assists from just 52 appearances across all competitions.

He has now signed for the Gunners and the fans will be hoping that he can get up to speed in time for the new campaign.

Gyokeres did not score on his full friendly debut against Villarreal, and will get another chance to do so against Athletic Club.

The Swede needs to build more chemistry with his teammates.