Arsenal
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal U21 defender Maldini Kacurri has earned his first senior call-up to the Albania national team for their upcoming friendly against Gibraltar and World Cup qualifier against Latvia, according to Jeorge Bird’s Arsenal Youth.
The 19-year-old centre-back, who has yet to make his senior debut for the Gunners, has been rewarded for his rapid progress in North London and his strong showings at international youth level.
Born in London to Albanian parents and named after Italian legend Paolo Maldini, Kacurri has impressed with Arsenal’s U21s this season, starting three consecutive matches in Premier League 2 after coming off the bench in the opener against Manchester United.
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His commanding aerial presence, tough tackling, and growing composure have earned praise from coaches and analysts, with a standout performance in the EFL Trophy win over Leyton Orient catching particular attention.
Arsenal - Maldini Kacurri
Maldini Kacurri (Image credit: Getty Images)
Kacurri joined Arsenal from Fulham’s academy in 2022 and has since represented Albania at U17 and U19 levels. His senior call-up is seen as a significant milestone in his career and further recognition of his development.
He signed his first professional contract with Arsenal in July 2024 and has already trained with Mikel Arteta’s first-team squad, even making the bench for a Premier League clash against Tottenham last September. A short loan spell at League Two side Bromley last season also provided valuable senior experience.
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Despite limited senior minutes at club level, Albania’s decision to include Kacurri highlights their commitment to integrating young talent into the national setup. At 1.89m tall, with the ability to play out from the back, he offers qualities suited to the modern international game.
For Arsenal, Kacurri’s recognition adds to a busy transfer deadline day that saw multiple outgoings, including Jakub Kiwior’s loan to Porto with an obligation to buy, Albert Sambi Lokonga’s permanent move to Hamburg, Fabio Vieira’s loan to the same club, Reiss Nelson’s loan to Brentford, and Lucas Martin Nygaard’s temporary switch to Brabrand IF.
While Oleksandr Zinchenko remained at the Emirates despite late interest, Kacurri’s senior international breakthrough underlines the continued strength of Arsenal’s academy pipeline.
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