Arsenal under-21s manager Mehmet Ali has now discussed the potential for young players going on the pre-season USA tour to impress Mikel Arteta.
Last night, a makeshift Arsenal under-21s side, featuring a number of trialists, took on Enfield Town’s senior team in a friendly.
Although the Gunners’ youngsters were beaten 2-1, it will still have been a hugely helpful experience for them to go up against men and test their physicality in that environment.
This summer could prove important for a number of the North London club’s most talented youth prospects. Several Hale End academy talents will be hoping to join the Arsenal pre-season tour of the USA.
Mikel Arteta and his first team group will be heading to America on Sunday. They will face three fellow Premier League opponents in friendlies whilst Stateside, beginning with Bournemouth and Manchester United in Los Angeles, before moving on to Philadelphia to face Liverpool.
However, several first team Arsenal stars won’t be on the tour, due to their involvement in international tournaments over the course of the summer. Their absence will create an opportunity for some Arsenal youth stars to feature in their place.
Mehmet Ali sends message to Hale End gems ahead of USA tour
Mehmet Ali is well aware that this possibility exists, and will be hoping that his youngsters who make the trip can give a good account of themselves in America.
Of course, there is a chance that they may even be able to work their way into Arteta’s plans if they impress in the States, and they will also have the chance to establish themselves in the eyes of the fans.
As quoted by the club’s official website, Ali has revealed what he has told his academy players: “We’ve got a lot of lads supporting the first team and they’re going to be training tomorrow and have got to try to impress Mikel and the guys.
“Then you’ve got the group just below that and we’ve got a tour that we’re going to on Sunday. We’re not quite sure yet what players we’re going to have and who is going to be going where. That’s the beauty of under-21s – my message is always to be ready for whatever opportunities or experiences are put in front of you and we’ll keep helping them with that.”
Which Hale End players are going on Arsenal tour of America?
As stated by Ali, it is not yet entirely clear which youngsters will be making the trip, but there are some near-certainties.
The likes of Ethan Nwaneri, Myles Lewis-Skelly, and Charlie Patino stand a strong chance of involvement. Meanwhile, goalkeeper Karl Hein could become Arsenal’s temporary No. 1 for the duration of the tour, as David Raya and Aaron Ramsdale have both been afforded an extended holiday following the Euro 2024 final.
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