Arsene Wenger has always be known for giving young players a chance – notably, Jack Wilshere, Hector Bellerin, Francis Coquelin, Kieran Gibbs, Wojciech Szczęsny, and most recently Alex Iwobi, have all made the step to the first-team.
Iwobi has been a revelation since his insertion into the first-team. Earlier this year he was the captain of the under-21s, and played in the UEFA Youth League games too, but there has been another player who has impressed in the under-21s this season – Stephy Mavididi. Following Chuba Akpom’s loan to Hull City this year, Mavididi became the starting striker for the under-21s this season.Last season, he was a starter for the under-18s, started five out of seven UEFA Youth league games, but also made 10 appearances for the under-21s. During that same season, Mavididi was a key member in an Arsenal under-17 side which finished third in the Alkas cup- where he was also top scorer.
YouTube: Arsenal vs Vissel Kobe 05-02-2015
It was in the under-18s, however, where Mavididi excelled. Although the team eventually finished second from bottom in the South Division, Mavididi scored an outstanding 15 goals in 16 appearances. It was no surprise, therefore, that amid the influx of new talent to the academy during last summer, Mavididi signed professional terms with the club, being one of the eight Hale End products to sign professional terms or scholarships.
YouTube: Stephy Mavididi ● All Goals – 2014/2015 ● Arsenal U18
This season has seen Mavididi continue his impressive goal scoring. The powerful striker has now scored 11 goals in 17 appearances in the under-21 league. He has also played a big role in Arsenal’s UEFA Youth League team and the FA Youth Cup team that reached the semi-finals, later eliminated by Manchester City.
Mavididi has arguably been the best player in a very talented under-21 team which includes the likes of Jeff Rene-Adelaide, Donyell Malen, Krystian Bielik and Chris Willock, to a name a few. At only 17, he is still a junior member of the squad but seems to have adapted to the step up in level with ease.
The young striker possesses excellent strength and is quite happy to be physical and bully defenders. Moreover, he is quick enough to get in behind, and seems to time his runs well – something young strikers don’t often do. His finishing, needless to say, is excellent, as proven by his goalscoring record at youth level.
All in all, Mavididi is progressing well. Due to his form, he has been called up to the England under-18 squad, and will look to progress further for his nation next year.
At the moment, Arsenal have some talented strikers coming through, including himself, Eddie Nketiah, Malen and the returning Akpom. Arsenal will need to make the crucial decision as to whether to loan him out, or keep him within the under-21 team.
