‘Because’: Coach says why Arsenal ace played just 7 minutes in int’l debut

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Mexico national team manager Tata Martino has explained why Arsenal youngster Marcelo Flores only played seven minutes last night.

Speaking to Medio Tiempo after El Tri’s 2-2 draw against Chile, the former Barcelona coach explained that expectations need to be kept in check for Flores. The midfielder was an 83rd-minute substitute for Mexico in what was his senior debut for the North American country.

It was a night to remember for Flores, who is yet to make the senior Arsenal squad despite his international-calibre quality. The teenager has largely played at U-18 level for the Gunners. Yet following his senior debut for Mexico, it is likely that the youngster could be promoted to the U-23s.

Along with the likes of Charlie Patino and Miguel Azeez, Arsenal’s midfield options coming through the youth ranks is nothing short of amazing. And given the number of Hale End graduates in the senior side, there’s a strong chance that one of these names will be part of the first team in the future.

Indeed, Arsenal seemingly have another gem on their hands. Yet for Martino, he is calling for supporters to lower their expectations for the Mexican youngster, who is being billed up in the country as the next big thing.

Martino said about Flores’ debut and lack of minutes on the night: “Just because he travelled far to play today doesn’t mean he should have played for longer. Marcelo entered the moment we thought he should enter. I understand the expectations, but I ask people to be patient with a boy who is barely 18 years old.”

Martino is right to give Mexico fans a reality check on Flores

Mexico is a football-crazed nation where most youngsters coming through at big clubs are overhyped into oblivion, and Flores is no exception. This is why it is refreshing to see Martino bring expectations over the 18-year-old down to Earth.

After all, this is a player who hardly features for Arsenal’s best youth side, let alone the first team. And whilst Flores has the potential to become a superstar, both the Gunners and Mexico need to temper expectations given his young age and lack of experience at the senior level.