Arsenal man will be frustrated after Arteta’s glimmer of hope, following win – Our View

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Reiss Nelson was given a glimmer of hope by Mikel Arteta when he was included in the Europa League squad submitted by Arsenal – but currently injured, he will now be even more frustrated following Marquinhos’ debut.

Nelson, 22, last played for Arsenal in January 2021. But having been ostracised towards the end of the 2020-21 season, the 12-time England Under-21 international went on loan to Feyenoord last season. He was very indifferent.

Starting poorly, he finished with stats of four goals and seven assists in 32 appearances. He started in the Europa Conference League final against Roma – but it was not enough to earn him a move. He remains at Arsenal.

Currently sidelined with a muscle issue, Nelson has been included in Arsenal’s Europa League squad. Had he been fit, he might have started on the right flank on Thursday night against Zurich. But he remained in London.

In his place, there is a new star. Marquinhos made his debut after his £3million move to The Emirates. He was stunning on Thursday night, scoring a wonderful goal, laying on an even better assist. Nelson must be frustrated.

Nelson will be frustrated after Marquinhos debut for Arsenal

Nelson’s time at Arsenal is running out. His contract expires at the end of the season and if he is to make it a success at his boyhood club, he needs games. One of the six Europa League group games are now done.

In that, another option out wide has emerged. Nelson would have been hopeful for a chance after Arsenal allowed Nicolas Pepe to go, and with Emile Smith-Rowe injured. But his own injury has conjured up another option.

Marquinhos looks excellent – and at 19, he is a wonderkid. His age will see him earn plenty of opportunities to grow and develop. Nelson does not have the safety blanket of time – given he is older, and his contractual situation.

Following on from Arteta’s glimmer of hope that he could play in the Europa League, Nelson will only be feeling even more frustration – following Marquinhos’ sparkling debut. It will be interesting to see if he does get a chance now.