Gedion Zelalem says he will leave the club on loan next season if he does not feature in Arsene Wenger’s first-team plans.
The highly-rated 18-year-old has previously been likened to Cesc Fabregas and even Barcelona’s Andres Iniesta due to his passing range and technical ability, but has only featured from the bench four times since for the Gunners since making the breakthrough into the first-team in 2013.
Zelalem starred for USA’s Under-20 side at the World Cup in New Zealand this summer, impressing watchers with his pass selection and skills.
But after being knocked out from the tournament on penalties by Serbia, the teenager is now focused on the new season ahead and is keen to catch Wenger’s eye:
‘I’m going to go back for pre-season and try to get into the first team and play some games.
‘If I can do that, great. If not, I’ll look to get out on loan somewhere. It’s a dream come true to be at a club like Arsenal and I want to get into the first team this season, play minutes and start matches. I have high expectations of myself and if I was to be starting week in, week out, I wouldn’t be surprised.’
Zelalem is clearly confident in his ability and has set himself a high target to hit, but can he force his way into the first-team on a regular basis? I don’t think so, but he can feature in the minor cup competitions next season if Wenger keeps him at the club. However, if this is all he will obtain in terms game time for Arsenal, then a loan move would be more beneficial for him and his development.
Personally, despite his current ability and huge potential, I don’t see him starting week in, week out for us as he claims. We have a number of midfielders vying for a position in the starting XI, including the likes of Jack Wilshere, so Zelalem would find it extremely hard to play regularly.
A loan move for the teen would be his best bet to gain first-team experience, and I’m sure a host of clubs would be interested in his services.
