If there is one thing Wenger has done well for sure, it would have to be his man management of young talent. The Frenchman has taken many a raw talent and drilled them through the rigorous course of learning and developing and turned them into future stars of tomorrow.
Wenger has been at the club since 1996. In his 21 year stay at Arsenal, he has revolutionized the training and development program at the club. The resulting nature of the introduction of such new methods has seen the club inducted with a new and efficient scouting network, a proficient youth academy and a manager in charge who simply loves to introduce young players on to the big stage. Ask Cesc Fabregas.
Things at the club otherwise have not really gone down well in the recent years. The club has been deprived of success in terms of trophies and with major players leaving almost every other transfer window there has been a question on Arsenal’s eligibility as a top European club.
Despite such mounting pressure, it has been astounding to see Wenger stick to his principles and continue to give a chance to his young players on the big stage. One such player who has seized his opportunity is Joe Willock. The youngest of the three brothers, Willock plays as a central midfielder for Arsenal.
Just 18 years old, Willock has already experienced European football. He made his debut this season for Arsenal in the league cup clash against Doncaster. He also featured in the second league cup match against Norwich City.
League cup appearances although special are not unheard of for young impressive players. What makes Willock’s case stand out is that he has also featured in 3 Europa League games for the club. It is not a mean feat by any extension for an 18-year old to start on European nights for a club as big as Arsenal. Credit must be given to Willock for extending his run of games by playing impressive football.
He has a good, calm head on him and a decent passing range. Add to that his knack of dribbling past a few in the middle of the park and Arsenal might have a future winner in the ranks. Credit must also be given to Wenger and the board who not only backed Willock to succeed but it seems now have rewarded the youngster with a new and lengthy contract.
A long stay at the Emirates after an impressive run of five games within the first two months of the season for an 18-year-old, not an everyday event right?
Let’s hope Willock makes good on his promise and delivers up to his true potential.
