‘Really Composed’: Mikel Arteta Singles Out Arsenal Youngster for Praise After Impressive Display vs Bolton

Arsenal secured their place in the next round of the Carabao Cup with a commanding 5-1 victory over Bolton Wanderers. The match showcased the team’s strength against their League One rivals.

Mikel Arteta’s squad took full advantage of facing lesser opposition, allowing him to experiment with the lineup. This match served as a platform for Arteta to test various combinations within his squad.

Several young talents featured in the starting XI on Wednesday night, as Arteta managed the challenges of injuries and suspensions affecting some key players.

One debutant, in particular, caught the attention of the Arsenal manager, delivering an impressive performance in his first appearance for the senior team.

Mikel Arteta Impressed by ‘Composed’ Arsenal Youngster

After the match against Manchester City over the weekend, Arsenal faced several selection dilemmas ahead of their cup game.

Leandro Trossard was suspended for Wednesday night’s match due to a red card received in the clash against the reigning champions.

A more pressing issue for manager Mikel Arteta was the injury sustained by David Raya during the game at the Etihad Stadium.

This situation led to 16-year-old goalkeeper Jack Porter being chosen by Arteta to make his senior debut on Wednesday evening.

Porter’s performance caught Arteta’s attention, with the manager noting that the young player’s family was surprised to learn of his starting position.

Well, we told him yesterday and he was over the moon straight away,” Arteta told the media after the game.

“I think he spoke to his family and they weren’t prepared for that. It’s a big step, it’s a big occasion for them and I think they were nervous about it.

“But I think he reacted really well, he was really composed yesterday in training and today as well. His teammates really helped him as well on that. What an experience and what a way to break a record.”

Neto is Set to Play This Weekend

The Gunners are now facing uncertainty regarding Raya’s fitness as they prepare for their upcoming match against Leicester City this weekend.

Should the Spanish goalkeeper be unavailable once more, manager Arteta will have the option of avoiding reliance on 16-year-old Porter, as summer signing Neto is available for selection.

Neto, who is on loan from Bournemouth, was eligible to play last night since he had already participated in the competition with his parent club before joining Arsenal.

Regardless of Neto’s availability for this weekend’s match, the Gunners will be hoping for positive news regarding Raya’s fitness following his impressive start to the season.

In other Arsenal news, 8/10 Arsenal Star with 90% Passing Was a “Different Bēãst” v Bolton