Meet Christos Tzolis: Arsenal’s New Set-Piece Specialist Who Shined in the Champions League
Before the World Cup wrapped up, Arsenal was already busy reinforcing their squad for the upcoming season. After securing their first Premier League title since 2004 and reaching the Champions League final, the Gunners aim to keep their momentum going into 2026/27.
The left wing has been a focus, especially after Leandro Trossard, who played a key role in last season's success, moved on to Besiktas. Though Trossard scored six goals and assisted six times over more than 2,000 minutes in the Premier League, Arsenal needed fresh options as Gabriel Martinelli hasn’t consistently delivered.
Christos Tzolis has arrived to compete for that spot. The Greek winger could offer an upgrade and more depth alongside Martinelli.
Who Is Christos Tzolis?
At 24 years old, Tzolis started his career at PAOK in Thessaloniki, making 57 appearances before moving to Norwich City for around €11 million ($12.5 million). He spent one season with Norwich, scoring three goals in 30 matches, then went on loan to FC Twente and later Fortuna Düsseldorf.
The loan to Düsseldorf turned into a permanent deal worth roughly €3.5 million ($4 million). There, he exploded with 24 goals in 37 games, catching the attention of Club Brugge. In 2024, he transferred to the Belgian club for €6.5 million ($7.4 million), doubling Düsseldorf’s investment within a year.
Tzolis truly made his mark at Club Brugge, featuring 108 times over two seasons, netting 43 goals and assisting 45. His Champions League debut came with Brugge, where he appeared 21 times, scoring three goals and assisting four. He was instrumental in knockout-stage goals against Atalanta and Aston Villa in 2024/25 and scored versus Atletico Madrid recently.
Transfer Details and Contract
Arsenal reportedly paid about £34 million (€39.8 million/$45.7 million) for Tzolis, signing him on a five-year contract.
Playing Style and Versatility
Tzolis primarily plays as a left winger, filling the role vacated by Trossard. He also adapts well as a striker, attacking midfielder (No. 10), or on the right wing.
He stands out for his set-piece ability, delivering exceptional corners and free kicks. Last season, Tzolis created 52 chances from set pieces for Club Brugge. For context, Arsenal stars Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice combined for only 39 such chances in the Premier League.
"Christos Tzolis created 52 chances from set plays for Club Brugge in the Belgian Pro League last season. By comparison, for Arsenal in the Premier League, Declan Rice created 27 and Bukayo Saka 12." — Opta Analyst, July 17, 2026
As a Greek player, his name might challenge English speakers. The first name is pronounced closer to "KREES-tos" rather than "CHRIS-tos." The last name drops the "T," sounding like "ZOH-lis."
