Mikel Arteta Ready To Hand First Start To Talented Arsenal Star Against PSV

Image credit: Getty Images

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has suggested that academy striker Nathan Butler-Oyedeji could be handed his first senior start when the Gunners face PSV Eindhoven in the second leg of their Champions League tie on Wednesday.

Following their emphatic 7-1 victory in the first leg, Arsenal have all but secured their place in the knockout stages, providing Arteta with the perfect opportunity to rotate his squad and give young talents valuable playing time.

One of the biggest beneficiaries of this potential squad rotation could be Butler-Oyedeji. The 21-year-old forward has been on the fringes of the first team in recent weeks due to injuries to key attackers Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, and Kai Havertz.

READ MORE: Arsenal star rushed back from injury early

Having made his senior debut in January during a 3-0 win over Dinamo Zagreb, Butler-Oyedeji has yet to add another appearance, but Wednesday’s game could offer the ideal platform for him to showcase his abilities.

Arsenal - Nathan Butler-Oyedeji — ***Nathan Butler-Oyedeji (Image credit: Getty Images)***

Speaking on the possibility of giving opportunities to young players, Arteta hinted at his willingness to reward those who have contributed behind the scenes.

“We did that once when we could, and it’s always great because they’ve been extremely helpful, bringing so much to the team,” Arteta said. “So, whenever you have the opportunity to give minutes to any player, it’s a way of telling them that we trust them and appreciate what they do for us.”

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With the tie already in Arsenal’s favour, Arteta could also look to involve other academy prospects. Winger Ismeal Kabia, who has been included in multiple matchday squads, may finally get a chance to feature.

Meanwhile, UEFA B-list members Josh Nichols, Charles Sagoe Jr, and Khayon Edwards are also in contention for minutes as the Gunners look to balance youth development with squad management.

While Arsenal’s progression to the next round is all but confirmed, Wednesday’s fixture could serve as a crucial experience for the club’s rising stars, giving them a taste of Champions League football as they continue their development.