There have been many Arsenal transfer rumours regarding who could replace Theo Walcott if he failed to sign a new contract and got sold this summer, but should we be looking at outsiders like Raheen Sterling, or should we be looking closer to home?
Serge Gnabry arrived at Arsenal from Stuttgart in 2012 with a great youth reputation behind him, having played for Germany at U17 and U19 levels. He made his debut at just 17 years of age and after an excellent season with the reserves, and an impressive pre-season, he was called into the Gunners first team squad by Arsene Wenger for the 2013/14 season.
After making 8 starts and 7 sub appearances, including a goal against Swansea in the Premier League, he was unluckily injured and has been out of action for a whole year. Arsene Wenger was obviously very impressed to have put him in the First Team at such an early age, so if the young German has retained his excellent striking ability then he will probably be ready to play now.
Along with Jack Wilshere and Abou Diaby, he has played in the last two Arsenal U21 games and feels like he is getting back to his best. Gnabry said after last nights game against Reading: “I am feeling good, I’m feeling better and better. It is my second 90 minutes [in the space of a week], I am playing and over my injury so it is all good and I am looking forward to the next game.
“It is always nice to play here (at the Emirates), there was also a decent crowd so I was very pleased to be at the stadium again.”
Despite only just returning from injury, he has already been called up for the Germany U21’s, and has already had some recent playing time, which can only add to his fitness levels. “It’s good, I have been injured for a long time. I have been away with the young national team for the past few weeks, which was a good experience with a good side so I am looking forward to the Euros so hopefully we can go there and win the title.”
So, how is enjoying being back and playing? “I think it is team spirit. When you are away for a long time, you get together as a team. I think the stronger the team, the better the performances on the pitch.”
Okay I understand with such an important run-in ahead of us, Gnabry may not get many chances from now until the end of the season, but there are definitely possibilities in the future. It is interesting that Wenger gave him his debut when Theo Walcott was pulled out just before the game against Stoke City in September 2013.
Is it possible that if Walcott doesn’t sign his new contract, Wenger will already have a ready-made replacement in Gnabry?