Arsenal’s search for a new striker has been a hot topic, with names like Victor Osimhen, Viktor Gyokeres, and Joshua Zirkzee making the rounds in the transfer rumor mill. However, the club’s strategy might shift towards nurturing homegrown talent, especially with the Premier League’s financial regulations in sharp focus.
Jack Wilshere, now at the helm of Arsenal’s Under-18s, could play a pivotal role in this shift. His guidance has seen Chido Obi-Martin, a promising academy striker, flourish. Obi-Martin’s impressive tally of eight goals in ten appearances for the Under-18 Premier League, including a standout performance against Crystal Palace, suggests he could be a valuable asset for Mikel Arteta’s senior squad.
With Wilshere’s experience and Obi-Martin’s potential, Arsenal might find their next striking star within their own ranks, potentially saving millions in the transfer market. This approach aligns with the club’s tradition of developing young talent and could prove beneficial in the long term.
In an interview with the official club website, Wilshere lauded the 16-year-old striker for the ‘real personality’ he showcased. The former Gunners midfielder said: “Individually and collectively you have to have personality. Chido for example, scoring four goals.
“You have to have personality to keep creating chances and drive that throughout the team and then manage transitions by winning duels and coaching each other. I saw a lot of personality out there today which makes me happy.”
Wilshere added: “I’m proud of the team because, for a striker to score four, he needs his teammates, his midfielders and defenders, but it’s the hardest thing in football and to do it four times as an under-16 in under-18s football takes some real personality.
“Not just that side of his game, his link-up play, the way he pressed and set the tempo for us, he’s developing nicely. There are still things to do and get better at but I’m happy with where he’s at at the moment.”
Currently, it is uncertain if Arsenal will acquire a new striker during the summer. In January, Arteta minimized the necessity for a new forward and encouraged fans to support the existing squad.”