Author: Staff Writer

Arsenal’s scouting network is among one of the best in world football, but the streamline team who file daily reports on players world wide are largely unknown.

Sandro Orlandelli is one of the key members of the network, covering all of South America, and has also been one of the most fruitful in recent years. During the Christmas weekend, Sandro took time out from his schedule to speak with Brazilian radio station Globo about all things scouting.

Orlandelli began by explaining his route into the trade, and how he earned his way to Arsenal.

“I used to play Futsal in the streets before I had an opportunity to graduate in Physical Education and  then specialize in sports physiology. When I stopped playing, I got a job working for the youth team of São Paulo, mostly with the female team while working my way to coach the Academy players. I stayed there for four years.”

“Then I went to Corinthians, and I started having invitations to work outside Brazil, something I always wanted to do. I worked in Yokohama FC, Japan, in Saint Etienne, France, in both cases as a scout and then for Al-Hillal, Saudi Arabia, as assistant coach and physical trainer. Finally for Malmo in Sweden. So then I had the opportunity to do an internship at Arsenal. Once there, I was in contact with the board and there was a demand for a scout in Latin America.”

Orlandelli has earned a respected reputation under Arsène Wenger, and after years of building contacts and laying the foundations that all scouts need, the club have begun making signings based on Sandro’s recommendations.

“This is my ninth year here at Arsenal and five players have been bought because of me. Denílson, who is doing very well at the moment, Pedro Botelho, Brazilian left back who is now on loan, playing in the Spanish second division, Damian Martinez, Argentine goalkeeper, Carlos Vela, who was the first signing the club made under me, and also Wellington Silva, who is one of our biggest prospects for the future”.

Sandro went on to talk about his ‘scout intuition’, which he trusts even when scouts from other clubs disagree. However, one thing that is always hard to judge, is how foreign imports will settle. Accusations of Brazilian players in particular not settling and causing trouble have been common place, and this is something Arsenal’s man in South America believes the Gunners have side stepped.

“Unfortunately there are still some depreciation in the behavior of Brazilians in Europe, but at Arsenal we only had good examples, cases of Sylvinho, Edu, Gilberto Silva and Denílson of now. The big issue is that many kids do not understand that there is a need to adapt to the reality to which they will live to be successful in football country.”

The South American market is certainly a massive one for the future, and with Orlandelli already well established and respected out there, Arsenal have a big foot hold in a very important market.

Welcome to this Boxing Day special Loanees Watch – Young Guns’ analysis, reports and updates on the progress of the young starlets currently plying their trade away from the Emirates Stadium. You can read all the latest reports below.

Vito Mannone and Kyle Bartley both played the full 90 minutes as Hull City beat Sheffield United 3-2. Despite going 2-0 up with a brace from former Gunner Jay Simpson, United bounced back with two second half Ched Evans goals. Jimmy Bullard won the game late on after Mannone kept his side in it with a fine save from Andy Reid.

Bartley was booked in the 68th minute after a coming together with Hull captain Ian Ashbee, who was also shown yellow. Ashbee’s over zealous kick out on Kyle saw the two clash, with punches apparently thrown as part of a 21-man brawl. With the scores at 2-2, Mannone was forced to make two key saves to maintain his unbeaten record with The Tigers, one notably from an Reid free-kick. That save kept Hull going, and with just seconds left, they nicked the three points through Bullard.

Bartley headed straight at Mannone from a corner, his quick thinking saw him bowl the ball out and Hull went up the other end, and despite having an initial shot saved by Simonsen, Bullard slammed home.

Elsewhere, Benik Afobe came off the bench to play 36 minutes for Huddersfield Town against Hartlepool. Afobe came on with The Terriers 1-0 down, and despite causing problems with his pace and power, he had little services and Lee Clark’s side suffered a 1-0 defeat.

Ryo Miyaichi’s adventure with Arsenal is just weeks from beginning. However, the 18-year-old is currently preparing for a final swansong with former team Chuyko High School, as they build up to the All Japan High School Soccer Tournament, which starts later this month.

Japanese TV is expected to cover a selection of games, with Miyaichi being the star of the whole competition. In the build up, TV station Zero have been following his progress in matches, training and even in school, as he learns English ahead of the New Year. You can watch their five minute documentary on his progress so far, including unseen goals and training highlights, by clicking here.

Nacer Barazite will rejoin Arsenal on January 1st, after Vitesse Arnhem decided against buying the 20-year-old. The Eredivisie outfit had the option to extend the loan until the end of the season, but also turned down that option.

Barazite was told in the summer that he did not figure in Arsenal’s long term plans, and would be available for transfer. Liam Brady arranged a trial with Scottish Champions Rangers, and although he impressed, wages proved to be a stumbling block. On transfer deadline day, Benfica and Vitesse both made loan with a view to purchase offers, and Nacer chose the latter.

The Holland Under 21 international has made seven league appearances this season, mostly as a substitute. However, despite finding goals and assists in The KNVB Cup, the winger fell out of favour with new manager Albert Ferrer and has been in and out of the squad. Barazite spoke recently of his desire to stay in Arnhem, the place of his birth, but the club moved last night to sever links.

Vitesse had agreed on a season long loan, with the option to buy and review the loan in January and again next summer. A fee of around €3 million euros was, in principle, agreed.

Arsenal will now seek to find a new club for Nacer.

Arsenal’s much maligned defensive problems have been the hot topic among the media and fans alike over the past 12 months, and despite significant changes and investment during the summer, Arsène Wenger appears to be no closer to fixing the core issues at the back.

The past week brought some developments in the clubs long running drama over centre backs, with Wenger sanctioning the sale of prospect Håvard Nordtveit, while also appearing to waiver slightly on his pledge not to spend in January. Should the Frenchman decide not to make defensive signings in the coming windows, the future looks bleak.

While Arsenal fans are still reeling from Nordtveit’s potential move to Borussia Mönchengladbach, Wenger seems content with his decision. Maybe because he watched Reserve team captain Ignasi Miquel star in the Youth Cup last week? or maybe, just maybe, he’s one of the many who believe Kyle Bartley is destined for a long career in North London.

Bartley is currently enjoying his second season in the Championship with troubled Sheffield United. He impressed all in a three month stint there last term, but this year, while remaining largely unreported, Kyle has been one of the few shining lights in a Blades shirt.

The Championship has eaten up a collection of Arsenal’s defensive prospects, with many finding it just too tough and hard hitting to survive. Not Kyle. The 6 foot 3 inch centre half has showed the steel and fight he learnt with Bolton Wanderers, and taken to one of the harshest leagues around with ease.

Sheffield United have had a poor season and although tipped to be battling for promotion, they instead find themselves in a relegation dog fight. Bartley’s absence through a broken jaw made matters worse, but results began to improve when he returned, playing with injections and a face mask.

Kyle has all the qualities needed to play in England. He’s tall, strong, tough, brilliant in the air and plays with lots of passion. But there is a lot more to him than that. Whilst not being excellent technically, his passing of the ball over short and long distances is first class and that, coupled with great composure and two good feet, make the 19-year-old one of the best defensive prospects around.

Gary Speed, United’s latest manager, walked away to take the Wales job last week, leaving the struggling Blades in an even worse position. They took on a dangerous Swansea City side at the weekend, with many expecting a mauling. However, Bartley was arguably Man of the Match, and was hailed by SkySports for his ‘resolte’ defending in a 1-0 win. A massive three points and a clean sheet earned, in part, by the superb teenager.

His ability to lead and organise a defence on his own, is a huge quality to have at such a young age, and something Arsenal could certainly benefit from.

Nordtveit’s loss will have come as a surprise to many, but with talent like Kyle Bartley developing at such a rate, the decision to let the Norwegian leave seems natural.

Ryo Miyaichi will fly into London next month and put pen to paper on a five year contract with Arsenal. The deal brings to a close a whirlwind few months for the 18-year-old, in which a dream move to England appeared on, then off.

Miyaichi came to prominence playing in the Japanese school system, as he combined studies with regular run outs for the Chuyko High School team. He was handed a scholarship with the University but was soon on the move, as Asian scouts passed on details of the winger and a switch to Europe was on the cards.

In 2009 German outfit FC Köln invited Ryo to train with their youth team for two weeks. The youngster impressed but despite his six foot frame, concerns were there that physically he was far behind the rest of their Academy, so returned to Japan. A speedy left winger, who is comfortable with both feet and full of tricks and skills, Miyaichi was called up to the Japan Under 17 team in the summer following try outs.

The then 17-year-old featured mainly a substitute as his side went out in the group stages. Agents and scouts continued to keep track of his progress and in August, Ajax asked Ryo to join them on trial and play a fixture for their youth team. Arsenal were also recommended the prospect and jumped the queue, bringing the unknown midfielder in for training with the Reserves.

Neil Banfield was suitably impressed and handed him a start against Boreham Wood in pre-season. Arsène Wenger, Ivan Gazidis, Steve Rowley and Pat Rice were all present as the prospect left a firm statement on the Gunners before going off on the hour mark. A further run out against AFC Wimbledon saw a tired Miyaichi struggle but he continued to leave an impression in training.

Arsenal remained interested but he headed to Ajax and began training there. The management were also keen on Ryo and started him against lowly SVV Scheveningen. However, minutes into the match he was victim of a horror tackle and left the field with a broken fibula. Both clubs ended their interest and Ryo returned to Japan.

Chuyko High School had their doctors look over the prospect and it was quickly decided the injury wasn’t as bad as first feared, with it being weeks rather than months out. Arsenal and Ajax were faxed documents and then both clubs made offers. Ryo agreed on the former, although admitted it was a tough decision.

On transfer deadline day, Arsenal thrashed out a pre-contract arrangement, as reported first on Young Guns. Miyaichi’s scholarship with the Chuyko High School expires at the end of December. However, he will perform for them at the All Japan High School Soccer Tournament before heading to London for the second half of the season.

Arsenal are believed to have already won a work permit for Ryo, although neither party has confirmed this. Miyaichi is expected to go straight into Neil Banfield’s Reserve team as they continue their hunt for the Premier Reserve League trophy.

Welcome to this weekends Loanees Watch – Young Guns’ analysis, reports and updates on the progress of the young starlets currently plying their trade away from the Emirates Stadium. You can read all the latest reports below.

Henri Lansbury played the full 90 minutes for Norwich City as they beat Coventry City 3-1. Lansbury was involved in Norwich’s opening goal, being part of a move that led to Grant Holt scoring his first of two goals.

Aaron Ramsey played the final 16 minutes of Nottingham Forest’s 3-0 win over Crystal Palace. Ramsey came on and slotted straight into central midfield, but struggled to get involved. Billy Davies spoke after the game, telling the media he was reluctant to play Aaron due to the poor pitch conditions.

Vito Mannone played the full 90 minutes and kept another clean sheet as Hull City beat Bristol City 2-0. Mannone was largely untroubled, but did enough to put off Jon Stead in the final moments, as he blazed a close range shot over.

Kyle Bartley played the full 90 minutes at centre back as Sheffield United ended their poor run of form with a 1-0 win over Swansea. Bartley turned in a brilliant display, winning several headers and tackles.

Sanchez Watt was not included in the Leeds United squad that beat Queens Park Rangers 2-0.

Benik Afobe was not in action this weekend as Huddersfield Town’s fixture was postponed.

Cédric Evina was not in action this weekend as Oldham Athletic’s fixture was postponed.

Thomas Cruise was not in action this weekend as Carlisle United’s fixture was postponed.

Mark Randall will return to Rotherham on Monday after recovering from a broken cheek bone.

Gavin Hoyte was not in action this weekend as Lincoln City’s fixture was postponed.

Francis Coquelin played the full 90 minutes for Lorient as they were thrashed 3-0 by Toulouse. Coquelin returned to the team in his usual holding midfield role, but struggled to make an impression as Lorient were easily defeated.

Armand Traoré played the final moments of Juventus’ 1-1 draw with Chievo. Traoré, who played well against Manchester City in the Europa League in midweek, replaced Simone Pepe in stoppage time.

Nacer Barazite played the final 21 minutes of Vitesse Arnhem’s 1-1 with NAC Breda. Barazite came off the bench in place of striker Marcus Pedersen.

Pedro Botelho played the full 90 minutes for FC Cartagena as they beat Las Palmas 5-2. Botelho turned in another classy shift, drawing a booking and then playing a part in two goals, one in-directly, the other directly, crossing from the wing for the fifth goal.

Samuel Galindo was not in action this weekend as he continues his rehabilitation from a broken ankle.

Pedro Botelho is the latest Arsenal player to be caught up in an international tug-of-war, after both the Brazilian and Spanish Football Federations signalled their interest in calling up the youngster.

Botelho, on loan to Segunda outfit FC Cartagena, was born in Brazil but has spent the last four years in Spain, as he bids to earn Spanish citizenship and then complete his move to Arsenal. However, his superb performances with Cartagena have caught the eye and both countries are now planning their next moves.

Pedro is on the cusp of the Brazilian Under 20 squad, and coach Ney Franco has already confirmed his desire to include the versatile prospect in his squad for January’s South American Under 20 Championships. The Spanish Federation are also willing to make their move, and are planning to send their Under 21 manager Luis Milla to speak with Botelho about the future.

The 21-year-old spoke to Marca earlier in the week, but refused to commit to either country. Pedro is expected to earn Spanish citizenship in the summer, making him eligible to move to Arsenal. His performances in Spain have won many admirers, and with just 18 months left on his contract, speculation of a move is rife.

The player himself has talked down a move, however, but did leave the door open by saying he would leave the transfer situation to agent Santiago Gerardo. The future is finally looking bright.

Arsenal have accepted an offer from Borussia Mönchengladbach for defender Håvard Nordtveit, Young Guns can reveal. The 19-year-old will now hold talks with the German outfit and is expected to move in the January transfer window.

Ivan Gazidis has been in discussions with Nordtveit over a new contract for almost six months, as his current deal expires in July. Negotiations appeared to be coming to a close recently, with a three year extension on the table, only for them to break down. The club are now keen to offload Håvard in January and recoup some of the £1.7 million fee they paid in 2007.

Nordtveit already has Bundlesliga experience, having spent last season on loan with FC Nuremberg. The defender is expected back in Germany over the weekend with agent Jim Solbakken to thrash out a deal.