Charlie Patino must get pre-season chance despite wanting Arsenal exit, there’s two clear reasons why

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The future of Arsenal midfielder Charlie Patino is unclear, with it likely that he makes a permanent exit this summer.

Patino was once regarded as the best talent in the Hale End Academy, and there was plenty of excitement as he scored on his first-team debut in the Carabao Cup against Sunderland in 2021.

The midfielder came up through the ranks at Arsenal and a successful loan spell at Blackpool created further excitement that he could one day run the midfield in North London.

However, Patino endured a mixed loan at Swansea City last season, whom he joined after initially u-turning on his decision to leave permanently. He has one year left on his contract, and could now be set for a permanent exit.

There have been few transfer links for Patino, who started and impressed in Arsenal under-21s pre-season victory over Boreham Wood, and with Mikel Arteta’s squad travelling to the USA next week, there is a strong case to be made that the 20-year-old should be included.

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Charlie Patino deserves Arsenal pre-season chance if no transfer materialises

Arsenal are set to travel to the USA for pre-season on July 21st, and if no transfer for Patino comes along by then, he should join Arteta’s squad and be given a chance.

Declan Rice will be absent after reaching the final of Euro 2024 with England, and Patino could be handed the perfect opportunity to try and replace him in midfield.

Patino is capable of playing as a number six and eight, and Arteta is keen on Mikel Merino to perform this role. Whilst unlikely, if he is still at the club, Patino could be given a surprise chance to try and prove he can play a part in Arsenal’s midfield.

Charlie Patino can attract suitors if given a chance in pre-season

If Patino really is to leave, then giving him a chance in pre-season could still be beneficial.

Arsenal are set to face Manchester United and Liverpool in high-profile friendlies, and if Patino can impress in these games, he can put himself in the shop window for any interested parties.

Clubs may be keen on Patino given his promise as a youngster, his strong technical ability and his intelligence.

Arsenal’s midfield is now incredibly tough to break into, but if Patino can shine in pre-season, he may find that transfer interest in him grows.