Arsenal youngster Maldini Kacurri is among those looking to become the next star in the first-team, making his way through the academy.
Mikel Arteta named the Hale End star in a senior squad for the first time in September 2024 for the North London Derby against Tottenham.
While he was an unused substitute, it was the first time that Arsenal fans got a glimpse of a potential pathway to the first team for Maldini Kacurri.
He will now be looking to build on that experience to become a regular in the team, whether that’s in squads, benches or training with the senior professionals.
But just who is Kacurri? Here’s a look at everything you need to know about the wonderkid from his age and height to position and a nod to a legend in his life.
How old is Maldini Kacurri?
Kacurri was born on October 4, 2005, which makes him 18 years old at the time of writing and at the start of his professional football career.
How tall is Maldini Kacurri?
Kacurri is approximately 1.84 metres tall – or roughly six feet and one inch in height – making him tall in his age group.
What position does Maldini Kacurri play?
The 18-year-old plays as a centre-back in the under-18s and under-21s for Arsenal, becoming a regular for the side in the backline.
Kacurri is comfortable playing on either side of the backline, regularly appearing on both the left and right at centre-half.
What nationality is Maldini Kacurri?
Kacurris holds dual nationality for both England and Albania – though on the international stage, he has chosen to represent the latter.
The defender has appeared at both under-17 and under-19 levels for Albania but is yet to pick an allegiance for the senior teams.
Is Kacurri named after Paolo Maldini?
It is unclear whether Kaccuri’s first name is linked to that of Italy legend Paolo Maldini, though the links there are obvious.
The youngster will certainly hope that he can have the sort of legacy the former defender has, not least if he manages that while at Arsenal.
Maldini Kacurri’s Arsenal story so far
Kacurri joined Arsenal in 2022 as a free agent, having left fellow London club Fulham during the summer.
Since moving to the club, the defender has become a regular at Premier League 2 level, impressing in the early stages of his career.
The Gunners placed faith in the 18-year-old during the summer of 2024, handing him a first professional contract.
“It wasn’t a difficult decision at all to commit my future here,” he told the official Arsenal website at the time.
“It’s a great club, I’ve learned a lot here and I’ve improved so much. I can only see myself improve even more so it’s a no-brainer really.
“As long as I keep focusing on myself and improving, that will give me the best chance to have a good career.”
After making his bow in the first-team squad for the North London Derby against Tottenham, there will be hopes that he can continue to impress.
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