Arsenal have announced their new intake of first-year scholars for the 2026/27 season.
The youngsters signed their scholarship contracts during a special ceremony at the Emirates Stadium.
Academy Manager Per Mertesacker, Head of Player Care Mark Walter, and U18s Head Coach Adam Birchall were all in attendance at the ceremony.
Introducing Arsenal’s new scholars
Emerson Nwaneri: Emerson is the younger brother of midfielder Ethan Nwaneri. The 15-year-old is a left winger but can also be deployed as an attacking midfielder.
He has enjoyed a meteoric rise over the past 12 months, moving from the U16s to make his debut for the U18s and U21s.
Chelsea and Manchester City have previously expressed interest in Emerson.
Jayden Oba: Oba arrived at Arsenal in 2018 and has risen through the ranks to the U16s. He is an energetic forward who is capable of scoring goals and creating chances.
Theo Odaji-Ukueko: He is naturally a holding midfielder but can also fill in at right-back. He can make timely runs and produce incisive passes.
Angelinou Pedro: The young defender enjoyed a stellar campaign last term, impressing for the U18s and U19s across several competitions.
Charlie Purdy: Purdy joined Arsenal at the U8 level. He has developed into a creative midfielder, capable of producing match-winning moments. He made his debut for the U18s last season.
Joshua Sesay: Sesay joined the Gunners from Millwall in 2024. He is a versatile forward and can also operate as an attacking midfielder.
Hakeem Abubakar: Abubakar is regarded as a ball-playing defender, capable of playing at centre-back or left-back. He made his debut for the U18s last season.
Elyon Mbala: Mbala has spent seven years at the Arsenal academy and has grown into a promising left-back. He featured nine times for Adam Birchall’s side last term.
Daniel McCarron: McCarron, a centre-back, joined the north London side this summer, although he had previously trialled at the club in 2024.