Arsenal U17s have spent the past week in Brazil, during which they have competed in the Flamengo Adidas Cup.
The young Gunners (comprised of players born in 2007 and 2008) beat Flamengo 2-1 in their opening game before losing 3-0 to Sao Paulo. They subsequently lost 3-2 to Atletico Nacional and were then beaten 4-3 by Santos Laguna.
While results may not have gone to plan for the young Gunners, this tournament has still provided them with excellent experience and there have been some impressive individual performances.
Striker Chido Obi-Martin, for instance, has scored four goals. The Denmark youth international has already made his debut for Arsenal U21s and was a frequent attacking threat in Brazil.
Alex Marciniak, who is likely to be part of next season’s scholarship intake, has also caught the eye. A Welsh youth international, Marciniak can play in midfield or out wide and is capable of playing dangerous passes, while he also poses a goal threat himself.
Brando Bailey-Joseph, a winger or forward who is technically an U15 player, has also had some encouraging moments, as have U16 centre-backs Samuel Chinedu and Sam Chapman.
Ceadach O’Neill, a talented Northern Irish youngster, has also been part of the Arsenal squad at the tournament. O’Neill is just 15 years old but has already played for Linfield at senior level and could be set for a permanent move to Arsenal.
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Jeorge Bird is the author of www.arsenalyouth.wordpress.com Follow him on Twitter @jeorgebird
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