5 Arsenal youngsters who can become key players next season

#2 Ainsley Maitland-Niles

Ainsley Maitland-Niles has represented England at the U21 level

Arsenal fans describe Ainsley Maitland-Niles as ‘one of their own’ as the youngster has been at the club since the tender age of six. He’s a product of the Hale End Academy, signing his first professional contract in 2014.

Having almost lost his place at the club through the antics of Mum, Maitland-Niles has redeemed his image at the club through his undeniable talent. One loan spell at Ipswich was enough for Arsène Wenger to offer the youngster a new contract. Now Unai Emery has shown the same level of faith in his playing ability.

Naturally a central midfielder, Ainsley Maitland-Niles has rebranded himself by covering for the injured Héctor Bellerín at right-back. Throughout the season, the 22-year-old has grown and grown into the role, keeping an experienced Stephan Lichtsteiner on the bench. This season, Emery trusted the out of position youngster with 1790 minutes of first-team football.

With Aaron Ramsey starting a new life in Juventus, Arsenal is in desperate need for an energetic box-to-box midfielder. Maitland-Niles is the perfect candidate to replace the Welshman, as he’d be our explosive transitional player to help drive up the pitch.