Having been at Arsenal since the summer of 2011, Héctor Bellerín represents a refreshing example of what’s to come in the future for the Gunners.

Despite interest from the likes of Manchester City and former side, Barcelona, the talented fullback signed a six-year contract last November. His progression into the first-team ranks has been welcomed with open arms by supporters.

So with that in mind, it’s no surprise Guillem Balague’s recent comments are hitting the headlines. As quoted by Sky Sports and the Daily Star, he said, “Somebody at Arsenal told me that if Arsene Wenger ends up staying, he [Bellerin] could end up being captain in two or three years.

Petr Cech, Per Mertesacker, Santi Cazorla and Laurent Koscielny are a few players who represent the club’s more experienced players. None, bar Koscielny, can honestly say they expect to be at the Emirates in two or three years time, as ruthless as it sounds.

The likes of Alexis Sánchez, Granit Xhaka and Shkodran Mustafi are all key senior players with leadership qualities Plus, Jack Wilshere could be back and we have Aaron Ramsey who captained Wales. Arsenal certainly aren’t short of good captaincy options.

2017 is Bellerin’s sixth year at the club and having already rejected advances he’s definitely a fan favourite in north London. I’m sure there wouldn’t be many objections if he did get the armband at some point in the future.

Europe’s top sides will inevitably return with lucrative offers for Bellerin, but his love for Arsenal and London could keep things tipped in Arsenal’s favour. For now, at least.

Balague continued, saying, “He is that kind of personality and even though he is young, he loves Arsenal and London,” before suggesting the club will understandably be reluctant to let him return to Barcelona in future.

It’ll be interesting to see how this story develops with regards to Wenger and his future. This affects so much more than just the managerial position.