Rarely-seen 21-year-old ace hailed for setting ‘really high standard’ at Arsenal

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Arsenal goalkeeping starlet Karl Hein has rarely featured for the first team, but he has still earned praise from a teammate.

Hein made his debut in the Carabao Cup last year, but made an unlucky error as Arsenal lost 3-1 at home to Brighton.

The 21-year-old is already an Estonia international, but his chances of first-team football at Arsenal are slim, given that there are two top-quality options in David Raya and Aaron Ramsdale ahead of him.

However, his teammate, fellow goalkeeper James Hillson, has now praised his work ethic, and what Hein brings to the squad.

Karl Hein praised by Arsenal teammate

Speaking to club media, Hillson revealed that he has been working with Arsenal’s top three goalkeepers, and explained how each of Raya, Ramsdale and Hein have helped him develop.

“Players like Aaron Ramsdale and David Raya have been generous with their advice,” he stated.

“Aaron, for instance, has helped me with footwork and positioning, and David has shared valuable insights about core body shape and being ready for shots.

“Karl (Hein), on the other hand, sets a really high standard with his work ethic, both on and off the pitch.”

Karl Hein’s role at Arsenal

Being a third-choice goalkeeper is difficult, given the lack of playing opportunities available, but Hein has featured on the bench on a number of occasions, whilst also playing in the occasional friendly.

Hein has also featured for the youth sides on occasion to keep him sharp, but he is already Estonia’s number one with 27 caps to his name.

His contract runs out in 2025, with it unclear whether he would like to move on in search of more regular action, but he is a useful member of Mikel Arteta’s squad.

It is not often that clubs will have current international players as third-choice goalkeepers, and given his age, he may have the potential to challenge for the second and first spots in the future.

With Ramsdale touted for a possible exit, Hein may be promoted to second choice if the England international does leave, and Arteta may not want to let such a professional member of the squad depart easily, as Hein will need replacing.

Hein has impressed at youth level and for his country, and it is clear that the club rate his contribution in training highly.

The young goalkeeper is set to be on the bench this weekend, with Raya ineligible to face his parent side, and Ramsdale expected to start in his place.