Although the focus remains heavily on potential incomings to bolter the arsenal squad for the upcoming season, the Gunners could have some newer elements to the senior group from within to consider. Under Arteta, Hale End graduates like Emile Smith Rowe, Eddie Nketiah, Reiss Nelson and of course Bukayo Saka have reached new heights in their careers but never rule out more to come.
Although some starlets will likely leave when the window opens, football.london understands Charlie Patino is expected to be one of them, there remains a host of talent still available. Although, without Europa League football, having qualified for the Champions League, it is going to be trickier to get minutes.
The early rounds of the cup competitions and perhaps one or two group-stage matches in the Champions League might open up some chances. football.london takes a look at a selection of stars who could find their breakout next season.
Ethan Nwaneri
The youngest player ever to play in the Premier League after Mikel Arteta gave the teenager his debut at just 15 remains very much on unstable ground. Arsenal want to sign Nwaneri onto a new deal but nothing is yet signed and all of England’s biggest clubs are circling.
If he is indeed to stay, then Arsenal may have had to make certain promises about chances which could force their hand to allow senior opportunities. If taken, this could propel Nwaneri’s standing in the group and help for a pathway similar to the likes of Saka and Smith Rowe.
Lino Sousa
The left-back is a regular fixture of Mikel Arteta’s senior training sessions and is always considered when it comes to friendly clashes. Sousa has impressed those inside the club and his ability to play the inverted role stands him in good stead to make the step up to the senior level.
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Sousa will surely get opportunities in this summer’s friendlies. Although the club could consider a loan to see if Sousa can perform at a senior level, perhaps a move abroad might be the best route for his development.
Reuell Walters
Reuell Walters has already been given chances with the senior side in friendlies and was the only youth player taken on the American tour last summer. A versatile defender, being able to play both right-back and centre-half means he has multiple routes to opportunities.
With both William Saliba and Takehiro Tomiyasu out injured at the end of last season, it was Walters who Arteta called up to be part of the squad. Again a loan could be the way forward, especially with the club’s interest to sign someone in the right full-back position but pre-season could again be a gateway for Walters.
Amario Cozier-Duberry
Another player already having been a regular fixture in the senior group on the bench, Amario Cozier-Duberry has impressed with the youth side this season. Standing out for his great pace and technical ability drawing comparisons to Saka.
With Arsenal’s imminent renewal of Reiss Nelson's contract, opportunities could remain somewhat restricted but his inclusion on the Gunners’ bench has highlighted how much he is appreciated by the club and could be close to making his debut.
Myles Lewis-Skelly
Lastly, a midfielder of great talent and playing at a much higher level than his age suggests. Still only 16, but having signed a professional contract with the club, Myles Lewis-Skelly is one to look out for in the future.
Although the timing may have been the enemy of Charlie Patino, perhaps with Thomas Partey and Jorginho’s time at the club ending in future years, the door will open more often for Lewis-Skelly. His goal in the Youth Cup semi-final is already an unforgettable moment in his burgeoning Arsenal career and more is expected.
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