Arteta challenges Arsenal youngsters to push for first-team place
Arsenal academy players impressed in their friendly against AC Milan, and Mikel Arteta says they could earn some first-team minutes.
Mikel Arteta has challenged the Arsenal youngsters to put themselves in contention for a first-team spot next season after impressing against AC Milan.
Arsenal started their pre-season tour of Asia with a 1-0 victory over AC Milan in Singapore on Wednesday, with Bukayo Saka netting the winner in the 53rd minute.
The Gunners were the dominant side, having 23 shots, with nine of those on target, though they only generated 1.8 expected goals (xG) overall.
While new signings Martin Zubimendi, Christian Norgaard and Kepa Arrizabalaga made their first appearances for the club, among the standouts were 15-year-olds Max Dowman and Marli Salmon.
In total, Arsenal finished the game with seven academy graduates on the pitch, including 18-year-old Jack Nichols, Myles Lewis-Skelly, Ethan Nwaneri, Saka and Reiss Nelson.
But Arteta hailed Dowman and Salmon's impact and hinted they could have a chance of first-team minutes, if they continue to prove themselves.
"Very happy with all the kids," Arteta said. "I think they are able to play at that level at 15 years old, in my opinion, because of the environment and culture that is within the team.
"When somebody makes you feel so comfortable and so confident straightaway, you can go and do it. At least it gives you the best chance, and then you have to have the qualities this kid has to deliver against opposition like this.
"We don't know with all the young kids [if they could get regular minutes]. At the end, they are in and around the team constantly, and they [are] getting used to the dynamics and the demands.
"And especially raising the physical levels because the demands they need to perform and impact at the level is really high physical standards. They are getting there and that gives them a good platform, and they will have to earn it."
One downside for Arsenal was the news that defender Gabriel suffered a minor setback in his recovery from a hamstring injury.
He was not in the squad, along with Jurrien Timber, but Arteta confirmed that it was precautionary as they look to make sure he is ready for the start of the Premier League season.
"Gabi had a little niggle the other day in training," Arteta added.
"Because the fact that he has been out so long as well we have to manage him. We have been in Spain, different pitch, different conditions, go to the UK, different ones, come here. Again, a lot of changes.
"We have to minimise the risk with him."
