Does David Luiz deserve a new contract?

After becoming known as one of the most error-prone centre-backs in the Premier League, David Luiz has found form. Does this warrant the Brazilian a new contract with Arsenal?

LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 14: David Luiz of Arsenal looks on as he warms up prior to the Premier League match between Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur at Emirates Stadium on March 14, 2021 in London, England. Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

By Toby Hill18 March 2021 20:41 BST

If you cast your mind back to June 2020, then you may be able to remember Arsenal's return to Premier League football after the lockdown.

The Gunners resumed their campaign against Manchester City. This was a match that was well anticipated by the fans. Though it was a calamity in defence for David Luiz.

A first-half mistake gave the Citizens the lead as his poor control gifted Raheem Sterling an opener.

Then minutes into the second-half, Luiz pulled on Riyadh Mahrez and was awarded a red card as well as giving away a penalty.

However, since then Luiz has become a stalwart in defence for the north London side. He still has his errors, but his leadership qualities have shone through, guiding the likes of new signing Gabriel Magalhaes.

The Brazilian's contract expires in June, has he done enough to earn himself a spot at the Emirates next season?

Arteta's other options

Arsenal have a surplus of central defenders at Mikel Arteta's disposal. Gabriel has impressed since joining from Lille OSC, improving the base of Arsenal's spine this season.

Whereas Pablo Mari has provided reliability when needed, adding depth to the squad.

The English pairing of Callum Chambers and Rob Holding are also available. Chambers has just returned to the side, playing as a right-back in the draw against Burnley, whilst Holding has been an occasional starter within the team.

Both William Saliba and Konstantinos Mavropanos are having successful loan spells at OGC Nice and VfB Stuttgart. They are set to return to London in the summer and Arteta will have to make a decision, not all of these centre-backs should stay.

However, Luiz offers something that these players cannot: experience. The 33-year-old has won three European trophies and a Premier League title whilst at Chelsea. This gives him an edge over the others, he is a winner.

Overall decision

After considering these aspects, it would be beneficial for Luiz to be offered a season long contract. It seems unlikely that both Mavropanos and Saliba will be staying at the Emirates Stadium next season and Chambers has never been consistent enough.

If Luiz were to stay, his partnership with fellow Brazilian Gabriel could blossom, this would help with his development. Holding and Mari fall just behind but would be able to fill in when needed, giving Arsenal stability in their backline.

Nonetheless, the decision lies with Arteta and the Arsenal hierarchy. Arsenal will not be looking to strengthen that area and the continuation of Luiz at the Emirates may just be what is needed.