“I’m Going to Trust Him to Play Partey’s Position Against PSG” – Mikel Arteta Names Surprise Academy Star to Start Over Nwaneri and Skelly
In a powerful and unexpected revelation during his latest press conference, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta confirmed he will be handing a massive opportunity to a new Hale End academy product in the highly anticipated UEFA Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain.
While many fans expected Ethan Nwaneri or Myles Lewis-Skelly to be in line for a breakthrough start, Arteta has shocked everyone by naming a different youngster – someone who, according to the manager, has shown even more aggression and readiness in training.
> “The same way I trusted Lewis-Skelly and Nwaneri, is the same way I’m going to trust him to play Partey’s position against PSG,” Arteta announced.
“I’ve been watching him closely in training for some time now, and it occurred to me that he’s even better aggressively than Lewis-Skelly.”
Arteta’s Barca-Inspired Move
Arteta’s decision mirrors the Barcelona model of trusting young talents in big games – a philosophy that has helped La Masia graduates like Pedri, Gavi, and Lamine Yamal thrive at the highest level. Now, the Hale End academy might just be entering that same elite territory.
> “This is what Barca does and it’s been working wonders for them,” a fan tweeted. “Glad to see Arteta copying that style. Our Hale End boys deserve their shot.”
Arteta’s boldness has often paid off, and giving an academy player the keys to Thomas Partey’s midfield role in a Champions League knockout game is yet another example of his growing trust in youth.
Who Is the Mystery Midfielder?
While Arteta didn’t reveal the name just yet – likely keeping PSG guessing – insiders suggest it could be a dynamic, aggressive box-to-box midfielder who’s been impressing at U21 level and has recently trained with the first team regularly.
One source close to the club said:
> “He’s a beast in duels, great vision, and isn’t afraid to make runs into the box. Arteta sees something special.”
Hale End Rising
With Nwaneri, Skelly, and now this unnamed breakout talent all in the spotlight, the message is clear: Arsenal’s academy isn’t just producing future stars — it’s producing players ready to shine now.