Arsenal's Hale End Academy has been a fountain of talent over the past few years.
Bukayo Saka, Eddie Nketiah and Reiss Nelson are three names who have found themselves thrust into the red and white limelight in recent seasons after surging their way through the youth ranks. Graduates have not been limited to north London either, with players like Serge Gnabry, Joe Willock and others plying their trade at the highest levels despite things not quite working out at London Colney.
The rich history stretches back even further, with generational talents such as Ashley Cole, Tony Adams and Liam Brady coming through the academy ranks, with the latter even being a major cog in shaping the machine that Hale End is today.
Now a fresh batch of talent finds themselves on the precipice of first-team excitement, and football.london is asking Arsenal fans who they think will be the next golden boy from the academy. Our resident Arsenal expert Kaya Kaynak has picked five that he believes could be pushing Arsenal's superstars next season, and you can have your say by casting your vote below.
Kaya's picks:
Ethan Nwaneri
Tying down the youngest player in Premier League history has been a real coup for Arsenal this summer. It is thought that the Islington-born youngster was presented a pathway of how he will eventually make it into the first team with the Gunners and while that may not be next season, he’s certainly one to keep an eye on. Capable of playing in midfield, on the wings or up front, Nwaneri is one of the most highly anticipated Arsenal youngsters since Bukayo Saka.
Myles Lewis-Skelly
Another who is regularly spoken about in glowing terms by those in and around the Arsenal academy is Myles Lewis-Skelly. The 16-year-old midfielder was a pivotal player as Jack Wilshere’s under-18s reached the FA Youth Cup final last season, and will likely step up to under-23 level next season on a more regular basis. He’s spent time at left-back as well as Arsenal look to give him a well-rounded development, and he could be one to get a chance in the Carabao Cup next season.
Reuell Walters
Capable of playing anywhere across the backline, Walters became a regular fixture on Mikel Arteta’s first team bench. The 18-year-old is so highly regarded that some even suggested he should be thrown in for Arsenal’s title-deciding clash with Manchester City. Having returned to pre-season training with the academy players, it’s not yet clear what the plan is for him this summer. Having impressed in America last season, he could be set to do the same again.
Lino Sousa
Since his arrival from West Brom last season, Sousa has been one to watch. The 18-year-old has been a regular at left back for the under-23s in PL2 and also starred en route to the FA Youth Cup final. Kieran Tierney could be on his way out of the Emirates Stadium this summer, so if things go right, a chance could be on offer for Sousa in the first team next year.
Amario Cozier-Duberry
Often compared to Bukayo Saka, Amario Cozier-Duberry certainly got people talking last season. In limited chances with the first team during the World Cup break, he showed his capabilities, and he became a regular for the under-23s last season before even hitting his 18th birthday. Arteta is certainly a fan so keep an eye out for him in some of Arsenal’s Carabao Cup squads next season.
Be sure to cast your vote, and keep an eye on pre-season coverage to see if any of these starlets get a fighting chance to prove their worth before another enticing Premier League season.
