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It may have been a frustrating season at times at youth level in terms of results but some prospects still made impressive progress.
Here’s an assessment of some of the academy’s standout performers this campaign.
Biggest first-team impact – Max Dowman
Max Dowman has made 12 first-team appearances and scored a memorable goal against Everton despite technically being an U16 player.
Dowman has broken numerous records, including becoming the youngest ever Premier League goalscorer, and was officially promoted to the senior squad early in the season.
Most progress – Ceadach O’Neill
O’Neill showed glimpses of his potential during his first season at Arsenal but he really stepped up this campaign and frequently impressed for the U18s before being promoted to the U21s.
Previously mainly deployed as a winger, O’Neill looked especially effective as a striker for the U18s and reached double figures in terms of goals. He can also play in midfield if required.
Best second year scholar – Andre Harriman-Annous
The versatile Harriman-Annous also gained first-team recognition as he made two senior appearances, while he continued to feature prominently for the U21s.
Harriman-Annous, who was named Arsenal’s scholar of the year, has made an impact in various positions.
Midfielder Ife Ibrahim also deserves credit for stepping up to the U21s on a regular basis.
Best first year scholar – Marli Salmon
It seems somewhat harsh not to give this award to Brando Bailey-Joseph, who featured prominently at various levels.
However, Salmon, despite being the youngest player in this season’s scholarship intake, has been on the fringes of the first-team for much of the campaign and has made four senior appearances.
Best academy loanee – Ismeal Kabia
Kabia had made just one senior appearance prior to this season but he gained valuable experience on loan at Shrewsbury, who he helped to avoid relegation from League Two.
The prospect featured in various positions and finished the campaign having played 43 games.
Charles Sagoe Jr has also started well on loan at Kalmar after impressing for Arsenal U21s in the first half of the season.
Best schoolboy – Emerson Nwaneri
Discounting Dowman, who is already a first-team player, Emerson Nwaneri stepped up to the U18s in impressive style.
The likes of Mishel Nduka and Luis Munoz also provided an indication of their potential, while Kyran Thompson was a regular for the U18s despite technically being an U16 player and also scored in the UEFA Youth League.