There has been a considerable buzz of excitement about Miguel Azeez for some time, with the midfielder widely regarded as one of Arsenal’s best prospects.
The focus on Azeez has intensified this season after he signed scholarship terms last summer and, having caught the eye at U18 level, the youngster has recently broken into the Arsenal U23 side.
There is much to like about Azeez’s game – he plays slick passes with regularity, is very skillful and is able to control the ball effectively and at difficult angles even when placed under significant pressure.
However, there are times when games can appear to pass him by somewhat and it is important to give the 17-year-old time to fully adapt to the demands of U23 football before he can even be considered for involvement in the first-team.
An England youth international, much is expected of Azeez and it will be interesting to chart his progress over the next few years as he aims to make a major impact for both club and country.
Azeez has shown that he is willing to help his side out defensively, and he is capable of scoring some spectacular goals, but some patience is required as he searches for consistency.
—
Jeorge Bird is the author of www.arsenalyouth.wordpress.com Follow him on Twitter @jeorgebird
Hi Jorge,
Curious cat that I am,I would like know how and why we have many players of Nigerian descent in Arsenal (starting from the academy…off the top of my head,we have Miguel Azeez,Folarin,Arthur okonkwo,Bukayo Saka,Joseph Olowu, James olayinka) to name a few. Sp*rs,who are in North London don’t seem to have this pattern .
Would also want to know how Arthur has been developing as I believe he should be holding down a regular spot in the U-23s
I second this question…
I do seem to remember that we purposefully looked for young players from africa (immigrants, refugees, 1.generation). This was under wenger, and the reason was young players from africa in general was more hungry than the local and european players.
Im not 100% sure this is true but im certain i read something along the lines of this a few years ago, between 5 and 10 years ago i think.
There may be some elements of truth in that as conditions back home in Africa is enough motivation to succeed and of course, Nigerians are talented and strong willed people with insatiable quest for success!
I do not remember the source, but the source claimed it came direct from the horses mouth, the horse being Arsene Wenger. If it is true or not im not certain, but looking at our younger players in the first team and the u23 and u18 it can seem that it may be some truth to it. Then again it is london and london do have many people of african descent. I do believe there is some truth to the claim of young people from africa being “hungrier” too, just look at the france national team, although it is probably… Read more »