Five Arsenal Players Who Came From Real Madrid

Arsenal's history of signing players from Real Madrid is not very long, but it has brought some memorable names.

With the Gunners linked to a big move for Vinícius Júnior, fans are looking back at past deals with the Spanish club.

From a World Cup winner who joined Arsenal later in his career to a captain who has helped bring the team back to life, here are five players Arsenal has signed from Real Madrid, based on a ranking from Planet Football on Monday.

1. Davor Šuker

Davor Šuker came to Highbury in 1999 after helping Real Madrid win major trophies and shining for Croatia at the 1998 World Cup.

But the striker could not show the form that had made him one of Europe’s top forwards.

He scored eight Premier League goals in 22 matches, which is decent, but his time at Arsenal was marked by the exit of Nicolas Anelka and the arrival of Thierry Henry, who quickly became a club legend.

1. Dani Ceballos

Dani Ceballos joined Arsenal on loan from Real Madrid during Mikel Arteta’s early days as coach.

The midfielder showed some good skills, especially during Arsenal's 2020 FA Cup-winning run, but he could not convince the club to make the deal permanent.

Even with his ability and calmness on the ball, Ceballos did not become a main player in Arteta’s plans.

After two loan spells, he returned to Madrid, where he was not a regular starter.

1. Julio Baptista

Known as “La Bestia,” Julio Baptista was one of the most unpredictable players to wear the Arsenal jersey.

The Brazilian could create amazing moments, like his four-goal game against Liverpool at Anfield, but he often struggled with consistency.

His loan move meant Arsenal had little financial risk, making his time at the club exciting despite his ups and downs.

1. Mesut Özil

Mesut Özil’s transfer from Real Madrid in 2013 was one of Arsenal’s biggest moves in recent times.

The German playmaker quickly raised hopes, providing assists, creativity, and magical moments that showed fans why he was seen as one of the best attacking midfielders in the world.

He helped Arsenal win two FA Cups and became one of the Premier League’s most thrilling creators, though his relationship with the club later soured.

1. Martin Ødegaard

Martin Ødegaard’s rise from Real Madrid prospect to Arsenal captain makes him the most successful signing from Madrid in the club’s history.

After first joining on loan, the Norwegian midfielder returned permanently and became a key player under Mikel Arteta.

His impact, creativity, and leadership have made him one of the standout players in Arsenal’s new chapter.