After having many ups and downs, Arsenal have ended the season on a positive note by winning the FA Cup. Several youngsters have burst onto the scene this term. With Mikel Arteta himself being one of the youngest managers, it’s only fair that he gave a couple of youngsters a chance in the first team. We take a look at 5 youngsters who had a breakout season at Arsenal.
Eddie Nketiah
The striker was on loan at Championship club Leeds United for the first half of the season. After returning to the Emirates, Nketiah played mainly as a substitute to No.9 Alex Lacazette. He played 13 matches, scoring 2 goals for the Gunners in the league. The Englishman featured in the FA Cup final as a substitute, coming on for Lacazette in the 82nd minute. It is also reported that he will be receiving a Championship winner’s medal due to his contribution to the Leeds United squad.
Reiss Nelson
After an impressive season on loan to German club Hoffenheim last season, Nelson was being tipped as the next big thing by Arsenal fans. Nelson played 17 matches in the league this season, scoring one goal.
Joe Willock
Joe Willock played 29 matches in the Premier League this season, scoring and assisting once. After Mesut Ozil was locked out of the squad, Willock got the chance to replace him. He has since performed fairly well, but he still has a ways to go.
Gabriel Martinelli
The Brazilian is easily one of the best signings Arsenal have made in recent seasons. After being rejected by Manchester United last season, Martinelli was bought by Arsenal for about €7 million. His 3 goals in 14 appearances in the league especially against Chelsea proved that he is one of the best young talents in the league. Although he did not feature for Arsenal since the restart due to injury, Martinelli is definitely one for the future.
Bukayo Saka
The Englishman has had a dream breakthrough season. With 1 goal and 5 assists in the league this season, Saka has already established himself in the first team. Having already been deployed in several positions on the pitch, He is also one of the most versatile players in the Arsenal squad. Saka is a local lad, professionally developed at Arsenal’s Hale End Academy. There were reports that he was being pursued by current champions Liverpool, but he signed a long term contract at Arsenal and also given the number 7 shirt for next season. The shirt was earlier worn by club legends like Tomas Rosicky and Robert Pires.
If you have a different list of youngsters who had a breakout season at Arsenal, drop your list in the comments.
