Arsenal technical director Edu has aimed a subtle dig at rivals Chelsea following the announcement of Eddie Nketiah's contract renewal.
Nketiah signed a new long-term deal at the Emirates keeping the 22-year-old at the club until 2027. Nketiah was released by Chelsea at the age of 14-years-old before joining Arsenal's academy system.
The Gunners striker scored twice against the Blues at Stamford Bridge in Mikel Arteta's side's 4-2 win last season. Arsenal's technical director Edu has seemingly aimed a dig at Nketiah's former side after the 22-year-old's contract was announced by the north Londoners at the weekend.
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After being released by Chelsea at the age of 14 and snapped up by Arsenal, Nketiah made his Gunners' professional debut back in 2017. Edu took a subtle shot at the Blues for letting the striker leave, claiming he has always had the ability to reach the top.
Speaking to the Arsenal website, Edu said: “Eddie was released by another club as a young man but has always shown he has the attitude as well as the ability to become a top player. The fact he’s signed a new contract is an important part of our squad planning for next season and we’re all delighted.”
Nketiah replaced Alexandre Lacazette as the Gunners' main striker towards the back end of last season, scoring a brace against the Blues at Stamford Bridge in April. The 22-year-old will now wear the famous number 14 jersey for Arsenal, following in the footsteps of Nketiah's idol Thierry Henry.
“The foundations of this squad are built on young talent and in particular those who have come through our Academy system," Edu continued. Arsenal boss Arteta always maintained he wanted Nketiah to stay at the club with the Gunners set to battle Chelsea for the signature of Brazilian duo Gabriel Jesus and Raphinha who are both linked with moves to the two London clubs.
