Patience is always the most difficult of virtues, long have we spoken about transition periods and future potential, but what we really want, if we're honest, is the next big thing now.
Bukayo Saka has really given us that feeling in the last 12 months but
the truth is Saka was fast-tracked through the academy and earmarked for the
first team at a young age, it was no surprise he got there quicker then most.
So who is the next rising star that has been accelerating through the ranks. Well if you had to point to one amongst the huddle of precocious talent in Arsenals academy, without doubt it would be Miguel Azeez
Azeez is a cultured and tenacious midfielder with exceptional technical ability for his age, this includes a stunning range of passing and confidence in carrying the ball. These attributes enable him to effectively influence the game from deep, setting the tempo, carefully choosing which moments to venture forward with the ball. There was clear chemistry in his recent games with Catalin Cirjan, both demonstrating neat one/twos from one box to the other.
This type of profile is one typical of the players Arsenal develop; good technical players who are eternally attached to the ball. What sets the England Youth International apart is his agility and determination. With great resilience he displays a strong engine, covering plenty of grass, always endeavouring to recover the ball and enter duels with conviction.
Of course, Miguel will be looking to use the next season to improve
further and increase his understanding of his defensive work and positioning,
he'll further develop his physicality as he grows more and through his dedication in the gym. His path,
however, is unclouded, having recently mentioned in an interview with Guillem Balague that Academy Head Per Mertesacker has told him to focus on being a number 6 and
chances in the first team will materialise. Azeez idolises Sergio Busquets, and this is a fine example for him to study. The Spaniard's defensive work is vital
to his team’s performance but his ability as a deep lying playmaker is
essential to opening the space for the special attacking players Barcelona have
had over the years.
It's clear there is a lot for Mikel Arteta to admire, a midfielder that can blend the technical and physical aspects of the game but also the mental. The 17-year old believes in himself and is eager to learn and develop. His high work-rate on the pitch appears to be matched after the final whistle is blown, the young player recently proclaimed himself a student of the game with the attitude to be the best footballer in the world. As a life-long Arsenal fan Miguel is desperate to achieve these goals at the Emirates in the red and white. His ambition has no limits and exudes confidence in the middle of the park reminiscent of a young Patrick Vieira.
The story of this player is one unique of most English footballers, with
a Spanish Mother and Nigerian Father, his parents dedicated themselves to
giving Miguel and his brother Femi (Reading U23s) the best chance of developing
into professional footballers. Miguel first played with Arsenal at the age of
5, he progressed quickly often playing above his age group. His first
appearance with the U18s came at 15 years old. It was abundantly clear Arsenal
were dealing with a player of high ability. He was also quickly recognised in
the England Youth Setup, whether England can hold onto him in the coming years
is another story for another day.
Azeez continued to impress at Hale End with some strong performances
that showcased his abilities but also his habit of scoring long range goals, an
emerging feature in his game. This consistent form earned him a place in Steve
Boulds U23s in the abandoned 19/20 season. In his few performances he certainly
showed his ability to adapt quickly and impose his qualities at a higher level.
Going into next season, he will still officially be with the U18s but will
likely play predominantly with the U23s. There will be some that will call for him to gain experience out on loan, however opportunities could soon
extend to train with the first team under the guidance of Arteta and Ljungberg.
This could be pivotal in bridging the gap between the U23s and the first team. It
will be here that Azeez has a chance to show Mikel how he could become
impactful in Senior football and a cup debut could loom if successful.
The midfielder put pen to paper on a professional deal last year that will keep him posted at Arsenal for years to come, so patience can be afforded, but the maturity, desire and rising ability of Miguel Azeez may just get the train moving a little faster.
