Arsenal corner flag
Arsenal corner flag
Academy players who join as children and stay through every age group often mark their 17th birthday with a first senior contract. Defenders who began life as attackers show how roles can change over seven years. Families who have driven the journey share the pride of the moment.
Young players who have already tasted first-team squads know what they are working towards. Debuts off the bench in Europe provide memories that last. Title celebrations give an early insight into what is required at the highest level.
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Marli Salmon has signed his first professional contract with Arsenal. The 17-year-old defender put pen to paper on his birthday after seven years at the club.
“It means a lot to me,” Salmon said. “A lot of hard work went into this, a lot of ups and downs, but I’m so proud. I think it’s a proud moment for my family as well, I think it’s a reward for them as well, because they put so much time and effort into me. It’s proof of their hard work as much as mine.”
He joined as an under-11 attacker in 2019 and has since developed into an imposing defender. “I was an attacker in those days, so it was a bit different, but it was good. It sounds kind of cliched but it’s a lot of ups and downs, a lot of tough times. Sometimes you really go through adversity, but it’s built me to the person I am today, so I’m thankful for it.”
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🚨Marli Salmon has officially signed his first professional contract with Arsenal, on his 17th birthday today.
The player originally joined Arsenal as an attacker in 2019, but the coaches at Hale End changed his position to a ball-playing centre-back.
It explains why he’s so… pic.twitter.com/JNtNrqyV9s
— now.arsenal (@now_arsenaI) August 29, 2026
Salmon was included in several first-team squads last season and made his professional debut as an 83rd-minute substitute for Ben White in the Champions League trip to Club Brugge.
“It’s always a good experience to be around [the first team]. You learn so much, not even just on the pitch, but off the pitch, about how they prepare and how they carry themselves. It’s valuable, I’m so grateful for who I’ve got here.”
He was also part of the group that won the Premier League. “Being around that was amazing. You see so many one-percents that go into it. It’s a long season, so there’s so many things that change and happen, but really keeping that level over that period of time, it takes a lot.”
Salmon is now looking to push for more first-team opportunities. “I’m looking forward to attacking the season. I gave myself a good start, so let’s see what it holds.”
Supporters will congratulate the youngster on reaching this milestone. The academy continues to produce players who can step into the senior environment. Further chances this season will depend on his progress and the needs of the first-team squad.
Riga FC - Salah-Eddine Oulad M’Hand - Arsenal
Riga FC - Salah-Eddine Oulad M’Hand - Arsenal
Gabriel Jesus & Viktor Gyokeres
Gabriel Jesus & Viktor Gyokeres