Mail- Arsenal to Bank Tens of Millions from Sales, Arteta Criticized for Not Using Home-Grown Talent

The British Daily Mail has published a detailed article stating that Arsenal will make over £80 million this summer through the sales of young players from their academy. However, manager Mikel Arteta has faced criticism for not utilizing home-grown talent.

Recently, the transfer of 16-year-old prodigy Obi Martin from Arsenal to Manchester United was finalized. Earlier, highly-rated academy midfield player Dubeary and defender Walters transferred from Arsenal to Brighton and Luton, respectively. It is understood that Arsenal did not want to lose these two rising stars and offered them contract extensions with salary increases. However, both players decided to part ways with Arsenal in pursuit of first-team opportunities.

Arsenal is now mourning the loss of Martin. The club recognized Martin’s talent as he scored 32 goals for the U18 team, breaking the club record. Arsenal was eager to retain this exceptionally gifted youngster, but after discussing his future development with Arteta, the player remained unconvinced. This left Arsenal feeling frustrated, as the player had significant doubts about his future at the club—a sentiment shared by other academy prospects.

This summer, Arsenal will reap substantial financial rewards from selling young players. Smith Rowe joined Fulham for £35 million, and Rice Nelson and Eddie Nketiah are expected to transfer soon, fetching fees of £10 million and £35 million, respectively.

However, the inability to hold onto young talents is a concern for Arsenal. The Daily Mail points out that Arteta is eager to win the Premier League title from Manchester City and, therefore, is hesitant to use home-grown talent in the first team. A significant blow to academy prospects came last December when, despite securing top spot in their Champions League group, Arteta did not give debut opportunities to prospects Nwaneri, Sousa, and Walters against PSV Eindhoven. As a result, Arteta faced criticism.

Fortunately, the Mail believes that Arteta has recognized his shortcomings and may provide more opportunities to home-grown talent in the new season.