By Milcah Tanimu
Premier League side Arsenal has announced the signing of seven academy graduates, including Brian Okonkwo, a player of Nigerian descent.
Brian Okonkwo, born in London to Nigerian parents, has progressed through the ranks at Arsenal, playing from the under-18 to the under-21 levels. The 18-year-old goalkeeper is the younger brother of Nigerian-born British goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo, also a product of Arsenal’s academy. While Brian is beginning his senior football career with Arsenal, Arthur has been released by the club and has joined Wrexham on a permanent deal after a season-long loan.
The other academy graduates offered professional deals by Arsenal are Maldini Kacurri, Josh Nichols, Ismael Kabia, Harrison Dudziak, Sebastian Ferdinand, and Osman Kamara.
A statement from the club reads, “Seven of our academy players have signed new professional contracts at the club: Brian Okonkwo, Maldini Kacurri, Josh Nichols, Ismael Kabia, Sebastian Ferdinand, Harrison Dudziak, and Osman Kamara.”
As Arsenal prepares to compete with Manchester City for the Premier League title next season, more players are expected to join the Gunners this summer. In the last two seasons, coach Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City has won the league title at the expense of coach Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal, a scenario the Gunners aim to change.
