Arsenal have officially confirmed the appointment of Max Porter as the new head coach of the U21s.
He replaces Mehmet Ali who left the club this summer to join the coaching staff at Brentford, and having joined the club in 2017 to take charge of the U9s, his development continues with an important role in guiding some of Arsenal’s most promising talent towards the first team.
Head of the Arsenal Academy, Per Mertesacker, said, “Max has got the qualities needed to be a successful leader and coach. The environment he creates for staff and young players is always one of high challenge and ultimate care. Max is driving the highest standards and is a brilliant colleague and coach. We are all looking forward to supporting Max as he continues to develop in this role, and thank him for all his hard work and commitment so far.”
There were reports that Jack Wilshere might be in the frame for the job, but despite discussions with the club no agreement could be found, and he’ll seek to continue his senior coaching career elsewhere.
For now, good luck to Max and the U21s this season, where players like Max Dowman and Marli Salmon could feature heavily having already been part of the Gunners pre-season preparations.