Back in action: What Josh Nichols said after first appearance for Arsenal in four months

Josh Nichols has shared his excitement after making his first appearance for Arsenal in four months during the club’s pre-season tour in Singapore. 

The 18-year-old right-back featured in Arsenal’s 1-0 win over AC Milan on Wednesday.

Posting on Instagram after the match, Nichols wrote: "Loved every minute of it! 4 months since I last played for this amazing club. Brilliant result and love from the Singapore fans can’t wait to see you guys all again!" 

The post, shared on Thursday, quickly attracted positive responses from supporters who were thrilled to see the promising defender back in action.

Nichols’ last appearance for Arsenal before the AC Milan match came on March 14, 2025, when he played for the club’s U21 side in a Premier League 2 fixture against Everton.

Born in London to a Nigerian mother and a Jamaican-Guyanese father, Nichols carries a multicultural heritage that has shaped his identity on and off the pitch. 

Despite growing up in England, he remains eligible to represent Nigeria at international level, a possibility that continues to interest fans of the Super Eagles.

Nichols was named in Mikel Arteta’s squad for the Asia tour, underlining the manager’s faith in the Hale End graduate.

The youngster played 24 minutes against AC Milan and also stepped up to convert a penalty in the post-match shootout, which ended in a 6-5 defeat for Arsenal in sudden death.

Having joined the Arsenal academy at the age of eight, Nichols is considered one of the club’s most versatile young defenders. 

His return is a boost for Arsenal ahead of the 2025–26 season, as he continues to compete for more first-team opportunities.

Wale Adejumo

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