The three Nigerian teenagers training with Arsenal first team in La Manga, Spain

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has included at least three teenagers of Nigerian descent in the squad currently training in La Manga, Spain, as part of the Gunners’ pre-season preparations for the 2025-2026 campaign.

As previously reported by All Nigeria Soccer, fullback Josh Nichols and forward Andre Harriman-Annous are among the academy players involved with the senior team during the training camp.

According to respected Arsenal youth team expert Jeorge Bird, defensive midfielder Ife Ibrahim is the third Nigeria-eligible youngster training with the first team in Spain. 

The highly rated 17-year-old trained with the first team last season, though he is still awaiting his senior debut and has yet to make an official matchday squad.

Ibrahim was notably absent from Arsenal's U21 squad that drew 2-2 with National League side Boreham Wood at the weekend, further suggesting his involvement in the first team setup.

A regular for the club's youth sides, Ibrahim made 28 appearances across the U18 Premier League, FA Youth Cup and UEFA Youth League last season. 

He delivered a standout performance in April's north London derby against Tottenham Hotspur U18s, scoring once and providing an assist in an entertaining 4–4 draw.

Ibrahim has been with the Gunners since 2016 after being recruited from grassroots side AFC All Stars. 

He is now in the second year of his scholarship and eligible to sign a professional contract with the north London club.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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