Arsenal fans have taken to Twitter to react after noticing something different about Charlie Patino at London Colney.
What’s the story?
Well, the 17-year-old could make his first-team debut tonight against Wimbledon in the Carabao Cup.
Some fans below think he will, after noticing that his squad number had changed significantly.
Patino has been wearing No.87 so far this season, but he was spotted wearing No.24 while walking alongside Takehiro Tomiyasu in training.
Of course, that number belongs to Reiss Nelson, although the 21-year-old is currently on loan at Feyenoord.
To change from No.24 to No.87 is quite a big drop, and suggests to us that Mikel Arteta now views Patino as a first-team member.
It’s certainly interesting that the change in numbers has happened shortly before tonight’s game against Wimbledon.
Arsenal must be careful with Charlie Patino
When a young player is thrown in, it’s always a delicate situation.
If they play poorly, they must face the criticism that comes their way, something that could be tough.
On the contrary, if they play well, they must deal with the hype surrounding them, which can be just as difficult to handle.
Even before he’s kicked a ball for the first-team, there is a serious amount of attention on Patino, so Arteta must manage him well.
In truth, the Spaniard has already brought through the likes of Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe, so he knows what he’s doing in that respect.
For now, let’s see what the Arsenal fans on Twitter have been saying about Patino’s new shirt number…
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