He is one of the most exciting and promising talents to come out of Arsenal’s academy. Not too many players from there have established a foothold in the recent past. Ainsley Maitland-Niles is thought to change that situation.
The 2017/18 season was his breakout year. He showed that he could apply himself even at the highest level. The most impressive aspect of his performances was the versatility that he showed.
A number of factors ranging from injuries to transfers meant that he had to fill in for a number of positions. He ended up playing as a right back, left back and in the center of midfield. All this has resulted in him being rewarded with a contract extension, as confirmed by Arsenal’s official website.
The new Gunners manager who impressed during his interview with his knowledge of the entire squad and among the players he spoke about, Maitland-Niles was one that he was particularly excited about.
The North London club have announced that the youngster had signed a new long-term deal that will keep him at the club for many years to come. Ainsley Maitland-Niles is one player that Unai Emery has earmarked as someone who will have a big impact on the team.
Here is the tweet:
New season, new contract, new number.
Get your @Ains_7 shirt 👉 https://t.co/XRihKEbj2z pic.twitter.com/PlB3Ig8azG
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) June 12, 2018
This is great news for the fans as it shows that Arsenal can still produce and nurture exciting young talent. Ainsley Maitland-Niles himself said that he was excited to be working under Emery.
He also went on to add that the manager’s preferred style of play is suited to his game as well. His physical qualities will surely be of use for Emery and the kind of pressing he will want the team to do.
Though fans may want players to be signed to enhance the squad, sometimes the best solution may be found internally. Having a player as talented as Ainsley Maitland-Niles will surely add to the options that Arsenal will have in midfield. With his future locked down, it is time for the player to go from strength to strength. It is certainly interesting to see how he will be used but the future looks exciting.
