UMVA has learned that Arsenal's Premier League title win has brought an unexpected twist: not every player in Mikel Arteta's squad is guaranteed a winner's medal.
The Premier League rules are clear: a player must make at least five league appearances in a title-winning season to automatically receive a medal. This requirement, previously set at 10 appearances, has been reduced, but still poses a challenge for some players.
Arsenal goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga is at risk of missing out on a medal, despite being an integral part of the squad. He has played 11 times this season, mostly in cup competitions, but has not featured in the Premier League.
Another player facing the same situation is 16-year-old defender Marli Salmon, who has played four times across all competitions, but none of those appearances have come in the Premier League. While being part of a title-winning squad at such a young age is still a valuable experience, the medal rules can be unforgiving.
The Premier League provides champions with 40 medals, which can be distributed to players, the manager, and officials as the club sees fit. However, every player who has made at least five league appearances must receive a medal.
Arsenal can request additional medals beyond the allocated number, but this requires Premier League Board approval and is typically only granted in specific circumstances. Given Kepa's significant contributions to the team, despite not playing in the league, a medal would be a fair reward for his role in the squad.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that Arsenal's success has been built on the full squad, not just the players who appeared every week. The medal situation highlights the complexities of the Premier League's rules and the value of being part of a winning team.
