Having scored his first goals for Arsenal in quite incredible circumstances against Tottenham Hotspur for the U18s at the weekend, Mylo Bernard’s focus will now switch to the UEFA Youth League.
David Horseman’s U19 side face Bayern Munich away on Wednesday and they will be eager to secure all three points following a mixed start to the campaign that has encompassed a win against Napoli and a defeat to Lille.
Bayern also have four points from their first two games after thrashing Bodo/Glimt 6-1 before losing 2-0 to Viking.
Progressing beyond the league phase has been a repeated struggle for Arsenal U19s and a victory in Munich could go a long way towards helping them address that issue this time around.
Bernard, who joined Arsenal from Crystal Palace last month, could have a key part to play in proceedings.
The 16-year-old is most comfortable as a central striker, and it is from that position that he scored his second goal against Tottenham – a powerfully struck effort that crashed in off the crossbar.
Bernard can also operate out wide if required and possesses good link up play. However, it is his goalscoring qualities that could be of the greatest use to Arsenal.
It will be interesting to see Bernard build up an understanding with Andre Harriman-Annous, who can play on the left flank or up front.
Following his exploits against Tottenham, Bernard is likely to be full of confidence. His unpredictability and determination could be useful assets against Bayern.
Arsenal may also have a decision to make regarding who features in goal for the U19s. Jack Porter, who has played in both Youth League games so far this season, was the third-choice goalkeeper for the first-team against Nottingham Forest yesterday.
If Kepa Arrizabalga is still out then either Porter or Khari Ranson could be on the bench along with Illan Meslier for the first-team against Bayern, with the other featuring in the Youth League.
Maalik Hashi and Ceadach O’Neill missed the U19s’ game against Lille as they were with the senior squad, but their creative attributes could be helpful if they are available for the academy on this occasion.
The U19s squad against Lille included many first year scholars and that group is playing with much confidence at present with the U18s in the midst of a hugely impressive winning run.