There are a number of Hale End Academy stars eyeing up a potential first-team breakthrough, and Ismeal Kabia is one who has gone under the radar.
A lot of attention has been placed on top prospects Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly, with both coming off the bench in big games under Mikel Arteta.
Some of their Arsenal teammates may also be in Arteta’s thinking over the course of the season, given the lack of depth in some positions, as well as a heavy fixture schedule. Some could even make their debuts in the Carabao Cup, following the likes of Cesc Fabregas and Jack Wilshere in breaking through in the competition.
Kabia is a player who has impressed at under-21 level, but he is also someone fans may not know a lot about. So, here is everything you need to know about the rising star.
How old is Ismeal Kabia?
Ismeal Kabia was born on December 10, 2005, making him 18 years old at the time of writing, and he signed a professional contract with Arsenal in July 2024.
Ismeal Kabia Nationality
Kabia is a Dutch citizen, having been born in the Netherlands, and his family descends from Sierra Leone.
The teenager is yet to feature at any International level, with it unclear which Nation he would choose to represent if given the opportunity.
What position does Ismeal Kabia play in?
Kabia is a right-footed right-winger, who has occasionally featured on the left, but often performs a role where he hugs the touchline on the right rather than cutting inside.
How good is Ismeal Kabia?
Kabia’s strengths are in his speed and his crossing ability, and he has excelled at times at youth level.
The winger has linked up well with Nwaneri at under-21 level, and his sheer pace has drawn admirers within the club.
“Out of all the wide players we’ve had over recent years, Ismeal Kabia is definitely the quickest I’ve seen. Rapid pace that completely unsettles defenders. Seems to have improved so much technically too, if he carries on in this trajectory he could be a really impactful player,” youth expert Next Generation Arsenal posted on X.
Kabia has started the 2024-25 season superbly, and could be on Arteta’s radar for the Carabao Cup.
Ismeal Kabia’s Arsenal stats
Kabia was promoted to the under-21 squad at the start of the 2024-25 squad having appeared for them on several occasions before, and he has a fair amount of youth experience under his belt, with 34 appearances at under-18 level or higher.
- Appearances: 34
- Goals: 4
- Assists: 5
Kabia was named on the first-team bench for a North London derby victory over Tottenham, and this may not be the only time we see him in Arteta’s squad if he keeps up his strong form.
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