Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Arsenal Give 16-Year-Old Marli Salmon Champions League Debut as Arteta Endorses Youth Pathway

Reports indicate a Saliba-style development plan following his brief appearance in Bruges.

Overview

  • At 16 years and 103 days, Salmon came on late for Ben White in a 3-0 win at Club Brugge and ranked among the youngest Champions League players, according to UEFA.
  • The outing was his first senior appearance, with Arsenal previously fielding Max Dowman and Jack Wilshere in the competition at 16.
  • Mikel Arteta said the teenager was ready and noted he can operate at centre-back or full-back.
  • Defensive injuries to Gabriel Magalhaes, William Saliba, Cristhian Mosquera and Jurrien Timber opened the door, with Christian Norgaard used at centre-back.
  • Media reports, not confirmed by the club, say Arsenal are mapping loan spells similar to William Saliba’s pathway, while teammates and commentators have compared Salmon to Saliba; Arsenal list him as a gifted, ball-playing centre-back who joined at under-11 level.