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Report: Arsenal rate 19-year-old Hale End gem highly, want him to get first-team action

Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images
Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images
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Omar Rekik arsenal
Photo by Alex Burstow/Getty Images

According to The Athletic, Arsenal think very highly of Omar Rekik, and the Gunners are keen to find him a loan move to aid his development.

What’s the story?

Well, the 19-year-old arrived at Arsenal from Hertha Berlin in January 2021, in a deal worth £540,000.

Since then, Rekik has made 14 appearances for Arsenal’s Under-23 side, in which he’s provided one assist, picked up three yellow cards and one red card.

Most of those outings have come this season, as two muscles tears disrupted the centre-back’s first season in north London.

The Athletic believe the teenager – who turns 20 in a few days – could get opportunities in the cup competitions, although Arsenal would prefer him to leave on loan.

Rekik actually made his unofficial first-team debut against Hibernian back in pre-season, as he joined the squad on their tour of Scotland.

LONDON, ENGLAND - AUGUST 16: Omar Rekik of Arsenal during the Premier League 2 match between West Ham United U23 and Arsenal U23 at London Stadium on August 16, 2021 in London, England. (Photo by David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
Photo by David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images

The 1-cap Tunisia international has a contract until June 2025.

Loan exit from Arsenal would be good for Omar Rekik

As aforesaid, Rekik would probably get some experience in the Carabao Cup and FA Cup if he remained at Arsenal.

However, it wouldn’t be enough to aid his development.

Mikel Arteta already has the likes of Pablo Mari, Calum Chambers and Rob Holding sat on the sidelines.

Omar Rekik arsenal
Photo by David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images

If a 19-year-old walked into the starting XI ahead of them, there would be a few loud knocks on the door of Arteta’s office, in our view.

There’s nothing like regular first-team football for a teenager’s development, and Arsenal must ensure they find the right destination.

Rekik has a huge amount of potential, which the Gunners must look to nurture carefully.