The next Bukayo Saka might already be lurking in Arsenal's youth academy (Image: GETTY)
Arsenal might already have the next Bukayo Saka within their ranks in the form of a youth player who is quickly earning Mikel Arteta's trust. Nathan Butler-Oyedeji has been making waves behind the scenes and could be about to emerge as Arsenal's latest breakout star.
The 21-year-old has been training with the first-team squad this week ahead of their Champions League opener against Atalanta. His displays at youth level have clearly left an impression on the Spaniard, with his involvement in training an indicator of the ability he possesses.
Butler-Oyedeji already captains Arsenal's under-21 side and has made a flying start to the season, providing six goal contributions in just three matches. He was recently named the Premier League 2 player of the month for August in recognition of his prolific form.
Nathan Butler-Oyedeji has been training with Arsenal's senior squad this week (Image: GETTY)
The young winger will be hoping to follow in Saka's footsteps by becoming the next Arsenal prospect to make the jump to first-team level. He will need to make the most of any opportunities he gets, with a run of senior games the next logical step in his development.
Butler-Oyedeji has already had a taste of men's football, having spent time on loan at Accrington Stanley and Cheltenham Town. He has really kicked on at youth level this year and will be knocking on the door of the senior Arsenal squad if he continues to impress.
He recently explained that he learnt some important lessons from his time in the lower leagues, which can be unforgiving for young players looking to make a name for themselves.
"The biggest difference between academy football and senior football I’d say is the importance of three points," he told the Arsenal website. "At under-21 level, three points is important but there’s more emphasis on development and improving.
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"When you get to senior football it’s all about getting results and the three points on a Saturday. The importance of three points can determine a person’s quality of life, given the impact of a promotion or relegation, and you feel it every single week when you’re playing."
Butler-Oyedeji grew up five minutes away from Hale End and comes from a sporting background, with his father having been on the books of Crystal Palace. He was spotted by scouts from Leyton Orient at the age of seven but was poached by Arsenal a year later.
Since joining the Gunners, Butler-Oyedeji has represented them at every age group but is yet to make his senior debut. Last year, he was named on the bench against Oxford United in the FA Cup but did not get an opportunity to come on.
Arsenal are known for developing some of the best young players in the country and there is every hope that Butler-Oyedeji will be the next to shine. Only time will tell whether he will get a chance to make his mark for the Gunners if he continues to turn heads at youth level.
