4 English youngsters who could carry Arsenal into the future

Reiss Nelson

England U21 v Andorra U21 - 2019 UEFA European Under-21 Championship Qualifier

The Bundesliga is turning into a significant proving ground for English teenagers. While Borussia Dortmund’s Jadon Sancho is stealing the headlines for his superb displays, his fellow winger Nelson has also made an excellent start to life at Hoffenheim.

Many believed Nelson was first-team ready at Arsenal. The 18-year-old featured in every one of Arsenal’s Europa League group stage matches last season and performed admirably in the unfamiliar role of right wing-back. Appearances in the Carabao Cup and the Premier League followed, leading many to assume he was already part of the first team squad.

A loan was surprising, but few could be upset at his choice of destination. Hoffenheim, coached by the talented Julian Naglesmann, was the perfect place for him to develop. A year in the Bundesliga, plus a handful of Champions League games, would be a terrific experience for him.

Able to play on the right or left, Nelson has plenty of pace and trickery. He already has two goals to his name in Germany, plus another goal on his debut for the England U21 side. He's expected to return to Arsenal ready to compete for a first-team place.