Arsenal have become one of England’s top clubs when it comes to turning academy talents into first-team stars.
Bukayo Saka graduated from the Hale End setup to become a star for Arsenal and England, and more are on the way.
Myles Lewis-Skelly has also enjoyed a breakthrough at Arsenal and is now in the Three Lions setup, while Ethan Nwaneri is with England’s Under-21s.
Arsene Wenger has now spoken about Saka and Lewis-Skelly as he gave his verdict on the work Arsenal have done with their academy pathway.
Arsene Wenger hails Arsenal academy pathway
Wenger, speaking to the European Club Association, said he’s “very happy” about Arsenal’s pathway from the academy to the first team.
He said Saka is a “world-class player” and praised Lewis-Skelly for how he’s already in the international picture after not long graduating from the academy.
“I find that’s part of the DNA of the club,” said Wenger. “I’m happy that these values continue, and I think the academy is doing a fantastic job because one year is very exciting.
“I don’t speak about Saka because he’s a world-class player and Lewis-Skelly, now coming out (of the academy) is already in the English national team, so I love that.
“And you know I’m very happy that this integration of top level players at a young age is happening at Arsenal.”
The next Arsenal academy player tipped for stardom
Rio Ferdinand spoke highly of Nwaneri and Lewis-Skelly after Arsenal’s 7-1 win over PSV Eindhoven in their Champions League last-16 first leg.
Ferdinand then urged people to watch out for Max Dowman, saying he’s worth the wait when he makes his breakthrough in the next few years.
“Hale End, Arsenal, they’re churning out some kids now,” Ferdinand said on his YouTube channel. “Lewis-Skelly, young kid, and Nwaneri we just talked about.
“They’ve got another kid called Max Dowman, oh you must have seen him play against your boy.
“Oh, if you not know about Max Dowman guys, wait and it’ll be worth your wait to watch this kid play football.”
Ferdinand previously revealed that Arsenal insiders have told him Dowman trains with the senior players like it’s just another day, such is his talent and confidence.
