Fansided

10 young players to watch

By James Dudko

Fulham's English defender Ryan Sessegnon (C) makes a through pass in the build up to the opening goal by Fulham's English midfielder Tom Cairney during the English Championship play-off final football match between Aston Villa and Fulham at Wembley Stadium in London on May 26, 2018. (Photo by Ian KINGTON / AFP) / NOT FOR MARKETING OR ADVERTISING USE / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE (Photo credit should read IAN KINGTON/AFP/Getty Images)
Fulham's English defender Ryan Sessegnon (C) makes a through pass in the build up to the opening goal by Fulham's English midfielder Tom Cairney during the English Championship play-off final football match between Aston Villa and Fulham at Wembley Stadium in London on May 26, 2018. (Photo by Ian KINGTON / AFP) / NOT FOR MARKETING OR ADVERTISING USE / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE (Photo credit should read IAN KINGTON/AFP/Getty Images) /
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SINGAPORE – JULY 28: Matteo Guendouzi of Arsenal argues with referee for awarding the penalty kick to Paris Saint Germain during the International Champions Cup match between Arsenal and Paris Saint Germain at the National Stadium on July 28, 2018 in Singapore. (Photo by Suhaimi Abdullah/Getty Images for ICC)
SINGAPORE – JULY 28: Matteo Guendouzi of Arsenal argues with referee for awarding the penalty kick to Paris Saint Germain during the International Champions Cup match between Arsenal and Paris Saint Germain at the National Stadium on July 28, 2018 in Singapore. (Photo by Suhaimi Abdullah/Getty Images for ICC) /

6. Matteo Guendouzi, Arsenal

Among all the incomings and outgoings at Arsenal since the end of last season, Matteo Guendouzi’s arrival from Lorient barely registered. Yet people are getting to know the 19-year-old midfielder fast after a string of impressive performances during preseason.

The exciting prospect has been showing off his confidence and competence on the ball. Vision, touch and daring were all evident when Guendouzi built attacks from deep during the 1-1 draw against Atletico Madrid in Singapore:

Guendouzi was even better in the 5-1 defeat of Paris Saint-Germain:

Arsenal’s midfield is already well-stocked after new head coach Unai Emery acquired Uruguay international Lucas Torreira from Sampdoria. There should still be chances for Guendouzi to impress, though.

Niether Granit Xhaka nor Mohamed Elneny have consistently convinced in the holding role. Ainsley Maitland-Niles, a superior athlete who is still just 20, may get his chances.

However, Guendouzi’s ease and class in possession could set him apart as the season progresses.