The Nigerian Under20 captain Kelechi Nwakali was an instant sensation as he led his country to glory in the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup, winning the Golden Ball while he was at it. Of course Arsenal had their scouts there and started a campaign to get him to join the Gunners ahead of many other top European clubs.
We managed to finally get him to sign a contract last summer, but he was sent out on loan to MVV Maastricht in the Eerste Divisie in Holland. Despite only being 18 years old he was a first team regular and made an impressive 29 appearances, scoring twice, as the club finished 7th in the League.
Now it has been revealed that Arsene Wenger has called Kelechi back to spend pre-season with the Arsenal first team. His adviser, Allwell Nwakali told allnigeriasoccer.com yesterday: “He is going next week to London, either Wednesday or Thursday pending when the flight is confirmed.
“Our target is for him to train with the first team of Arsenal in pre-season. They have invited us, so they have their plans for him.
“I am suspecting he’ll do pre-season with them so they will know his ability.
“Two things are involved, either they keep him at Arsenal and start fighting for his work permit or he goes on loan to a first division club.”
One thing is for sure is that Nwakali is heading for a very bright future at Arsenal. If he carries on progessing he could be one of our superstars for many many years. I for one can’t wait to see him in action this summer….
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