Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is pushing his players to show more intent at the Shobha Realty Training Centre ahead of their next Premier League game against Southampton on Saturday.
The Gunners will aim to extend their unbeaten run to four wins in all competitions but won’t take Russell Martin’s side lightly. The Saints are yet to win a PL game this season and are currently struggling at 19th place in the table.
But they will be confident of turning things around, especially after winning both their encounters in the EFL Cup. The South Coast side got the better of Cardiff City and Everton in the earlier rounds. Hence, it will be an interesting game to watch even if the Gunners remain clear favourites.
Arsenal’s media shared training photos ahead of the weekend clash, and one of the academy’s best defenders was seen giving a senior player a pretty rough time.
Raheem Sterling was on the receiving end of a strong challenge from 19-year-old prodigy Maldini Kacurri. The talented defender was photographed putting in a heavy tackle on the star winger.
Maldini doesn’t lose his duels 😂💪💪 pic.twitter.com/B6DmuzFWSj
— Arsenal Extra (@TheArsenalExtra) October 3, 2024
It appeared as if Sterling escaped unhurt and he didn’t struggle with a knock later on. The fans will be thrilled to see the Albanian wonderkid leaving no stone unturned in these training sessions.
WHO IS ARSENAL PRODIGY MALDINI KACURRI?
The U19 star was scouted for Arsenal by Steve Leonard as he moved to the Hale End academy from Fulham in 2022. Kacurri made his first senior appearance against EFL Cup opponents Bolton Wanderers last month.
He signed his first professional contract this summer and is getting more involved in the first-team training. The Albanian star made 13 appearances for the U18s and then featured a further four for the U21s last season.
However, the centre-back has taken a big leap forward this year, becoming a key player for the U21s, even surpassing other promising defensive stars like Ayden Heaven and Zane Monlouis. He made it to the bench for Arsenal’s last three Premier League games and the Champions League clash vs. PSG.
AC Milan legend Paulo Maldini was quick to congratulate the youngster on Instagram after his made his debut. Interestingly, the player’s parents named him after the Italian great.
📸| Legendary defender Paolo Maldini commenting on Arsenal’s Maldini Kacurri Instagram post, after he made his debut for the club. pic.twitter.com/23U8WYJp5q
— now.arsenal (@now_arsenaI) October 4, 2024
Youth team expert Jeorge Bird has described him as a powerful centre-back who can be a future leader at the Emirates.
Kacurri is strong aerially and is very comfortable with the ball at his feet. He is never afraid of making a tackle, and his physique is better than that of his peers.
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If the 18-year-old can maintain his rhythm, it won’t come as a surprise to see Arteta giving him more opportunities with the senior team. He might show his potential in other domestic tournaments in the future.
