Arsenal’s academy is full of talent, and while plenty come through the youth ranks, only a few are able to make it into the first-team.
The Gunners have made the most of those at their disposal, as Bukayo Saka, Myles Lewis-Skelly, and Ethan Nwaneri continue to make an impact on the senior side.
Some sales have come for those unable to make a consistent impact, with Emile Smith Rowe and Eddie Nketiah raising some funds.
However, Arsenal have had their fair share of misses too, as the Hale End academy has seen one star leave for free and prove he is more than capable.
Former Arsenal academy star Omari Hutchinson impresses for England under-21s
One of those Hale End academy stars who left Arsenal to go on and impress is Omari Hutchinson.
The winger had come through the ranks with the Gunners, but went on to leave for free, joining rivals Chelsea instead.
After a short spell there, he joined Ipswich Town on an initial loan before a permanent switch in the Premier League.
Now, following his first top-flight campaign, Hutchinson is impressing in the under-21 European Championships.
Featuring for England, alongside Ethan Nwaneri, the winger has been a regular for Lee Carsley’s side this summer.
Hutchinson played a huge role as England booked their place in the final with a victory over the Netherlands.
Starting on the left flank, he caused all sorts of problems, which had supporters on social media in a frenzy.
“Omari Hutchinson is going to be a monster sooner rather than later,” one fan said.
“I’ll be surprised if Omari Hutchinson is not sold this summer, excellent for England U21,” another added.
One fan claimed: “Omari Hutchinson showing his ability tonight. Very creative.”
Another said: “Omari Hutchinson is literally better than Pedro Neto.”
One Arsenal fan claimed that they wanted him back, but only at a cut-price, stating: “Omari Hutchinson, I’d take him back at Arsenal for £15m.”
Hutchinson is going to be worth more than that this summer, though, and Mikel Arteta is the one paying the price for it.
Arsenal missed out on Omari Hutchinson with his free transfer exit
Given Arsenal’s lack of goals last season, there will be frustration in missing out on keeping an academy graduate like Hutchinson around to help solve the problem.
Losing the 21-year-old on a free transfer will be even more frustrating for Mikel Arteta and his staff, given his value now as well.
According to Football Insider, Hutchinson has a £35 million release clause in his Ipswich deal, with several Premier League clubs looking at a potential move.
As a result, Arsenal are now paying the price, not only in failing to keep an academy star who can make an impact, but financially as well.
As Hutchinson continues to impress, the mistake made by the Gunners is only further underlined.
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