Arsenal’s introduction of more youth members this season might backfire in a few days.
We have seen a number of members from the club’s academy break into the senior side under both Unai Emery and Mikel Arteta.
Reiss Nelson, Bukayo Saka, Eddie Nketiah and Joe Willock hold significant spots in the first team but what does that mean for the next class of academy graduates? Surely, their expectations will be heightened seeing the new developments within the club. Unfortunately, it would be impossible to keep all players and that might be the case with Folarin Balogun.
The highly coveted striker, who seemingly was scoring goals for fun at youth level is demanding more playing time. His route to the senior side is blocked by the likes of Alexandre Lacazette, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Eddie Nketiah. Even if one of those names were to leave this summer, Balogun will find it hard to get some playing time.
He is one more player Arsenal cannot find a middle ground with on a contract extension. Currently, Saka’s deal is being held up by minor details even though the winger has established himself as a future star. Balogun could fit into the same bracket if he is promised more in the coming season.
Arsenal still rues the day they sold Serge Gnabry for peanuts. They should be vary of doing the same with Balogun.
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