Arsenal drew 3-3 with Man City in the Under-23 league on Monday – in a result that showed loads of promise, but plenty of flaws.
Donyell Malen, one of the hottest prospects in the country, scored yet again. So did the exciting Reiss Nelson, while Carl Jenkinson also netted on his return from injury.
But the same difficult problems continued at the back, with even new-boy Cohen Bramall not being able to shore up the defence. It’s a worrying trend that has dogged Arsenal’s youth teams in recent years.
Why aren’t the Gunners producing exciting young defenders? It has been a long-time since we had a world class centre back come through the system.
Will we see some soon? Don’t bet on it, although if you’re a betting man, check out the latest on odds here.
Meanwhile, Arsenal face Manchester United in the Under-23 league shortly, offering another big test against a big-name rival.
It will be interesting to see whether a strong team is named, with Yaya Sanogo likely to get another go, or whether more youngsters will get a chance.