Sky Sports pundit showered praise on an agile Arsenal player under Mikel Arteta’s guidance, commending his sharpness and relentless performance, marking a significant improvement. This player, not Saka, Martinelli, or Saliba, has caught their eye with an electrifying display on the field. The 23-year-old, identified as Reiss Nelson, a product of Arsenal’s Hale End academy, has showcased notable improvement, especially when brought in from the bench, making a significant impact in recent games, notably against PSV Eindhoven.
For a while, there were doubts about Nelson’s future at the club as he went on loan spells to TSG Hoffenheim and Feyernoord, seemingly without altering his squad position. However, Mikel Arteta’s arrival brought about a change in Nelson’s fortunes. Previously on the periphery of the match day squad, Nelson gained Arteta’s trust and started to become a key player, entrusted with the responsibility to turn matches in Arsenal’s favor.
While Arsenal has seen many players improve under Arteta’s guidance, Nelson’s trajectory has been exceptional. Despite limited starting opportunities, he has proven his worth whenever given a chance, showcasing energy and purpose on the field. Yet, the challenge remains for Nelson to secure a spot in the starting lineup, competing with formidable talents like Bukayo Saka, Martinelli, and Leandro Trossard.
His path to regular starts won’t be easy, but Nelson remains hopeful, aiming to earn a starting spot in Arsenal’s cup games, including the EFL Cup and FA Cup, where Arteta often utilizes squad players. Nelson’s recent cameo performance indicates his eagerness to contribute more significantly. While a long-term Arsenal career might pose a challenge, Nelson’s tremendous improvement over the years defies the earlier notion of him departing the club.