Arsenal’s academy have competed in the Flamengo Adidas Cup in Brazil for the past few years and this week the young Gunners managed to win the trophy for the first time.
A squad comprised of players from U17, U16 and U15 levels were able to triumph, with Arsenal overcoming the hosts in the final with a 3-1 victory on Monday.
Marley Frohock, Brando Bailey-Joseph and Maalik Hashi, who could be part of Arsenal’s scholarship intake next year, all managed to get on the scoresheet.
One of Arsenal’s standout performers in the tournament was Louis Zecevic John, who scored some important goals in the earlier rounds.
Zecevic John is capable of playing on the right wing or up front and is now demonstrating what he is capable of following an injury-hit start to the season.
There are some exciting prospects amongst this group of Arsenal players and the experience that they gained in Brazil could prove to be hugely valuable in the future.
Bailey-Joseph, for instance, was a frequent threat to opponents, with the England youth international winger often performing to a very high standard.
Goalkeeper Jack Talbot, who is still an U16 player, was outstanding in the final as Arsenal secured glory.
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Jeorge Bird is the author of www.arsenalyouth.wordpress.com Follow him on Twitter @jeorgebird