Arsenal will aim for back-to-back wins this week as they take on Everton in the Premier League on Saturday afternoon.
The Gunners, currently sitting third in the table with 29 points, are determined to keep the pressure on league leaders Liverpool.
They head into the match on the back of an impressive 3-0 victory over Monaco in the Champions League on Wednesday night. However, their recent league outing ended in a draw against Fulham, so they’ll be keen to avoid dropping more points.
Mikel Arteta is contending with a defensive crisis, prompting several academy players to join first-team training on Friday.
Among those spotted was 18-year-old full-back Josh Nichols, seen chasing down Leandro Trossard. Academy center-back Zane Monlouis also participated, alongside young midfielders Max Dowman and Jack Henry-Francis, who trained with the senior squad.
Who is Arsenal academy defender Josh Nichols?
Josh Nichols, an 18-year-old defender, is a key player for Arsenal’s Under-21 team, having made 13 appearances so far this season.
He made his senior debut for Arsenal earlier in the campaign during the Carabao Cup victory over Bolton Wanderers.
Described on the Arsenal website as a “flying full-back” capable of playing on either flank, Nichols has also earned praise from Jeorge Bird, who called him a “hard-working” defender with excellent game-reading abilities and impressive pace.
In August, Arsenal striker Gabriel Jesus predicted that Nichols could have a breakthrough season at the club.
The Evening Standard also recognized his potential earlier this year, naming him among the 50 best academy talents in London. They highlighted how Nichols has been adapting his style to emulate Ben White, particularly as an inverted full-back.
Who is Arsenal academy defender Zane Monlouis?
Zane Monlouis, a 21-year-old defender, is a regular for Arsenal’s Under-21 team and occasionally serves as their captain.
He joined Arsenal’s Hale End academy in May 2012 and signed his first professional contract in October 2020.
According to Arsenal’s website, Monlouis is a “ball-playing central defender” known for his “cool and composed” demeanor.
Youth team expert Jeorge Bird has also praised him for his “impressive technical ability” as a center-back.
Last season, Monlouis spent the second half on loan at Reading, although his contributions were limited to a single five-minute appearance for the Royals.
