Handing the youth an opportunity is key to the long-term success of any club, but even more so for a side like Arsenal.
Bukayo Saka is by far the biggest prospect to have thrived in the first team since progressing via the Hale End academy in recent years, but there’s plenty of talent waiting for a chance to shine.
The Gunners’ number seven will without doubt be a role model to those keen to replicate his exact footsteps, but the academy players will also be inspired by the rise to stardom of a certain Endrick.
The Brazilian has always been a one-of-a-kind prospect, but he truly announced himself in Europe last week on international duty, scoring against both England and Spain.
With that in mind, let’s take a look at an Arsenal U21 diamond who could be their answer to Endrick.
Endrick’s rise to success
At just 16 years of age, highly-rated wonderkid Endrick made his competitive debut for Brazilian side Palmeiras, becoming the club’s youngest debutant.
However, the centre forward was far from suffocated by the hostile atmosphere and experienced opposition, also taking on the status of the second-youngest goalscorer ever in the Serie A, Brazil’s top flight.
During his first real campaign in the first-team setup, Endrick helped Palmeiras achieve a consecutive league title, scoring 11 goals in 31 matches.
This form saw the youngster attract attention from across Europe before eventually signing a £60m deal to join Real Madrid this summer.
But what if Arsenal had their own version of Endrick, who’s just waiting to be given a break?
Arsenal's "golden" Hale End sensation may be the perfect Partey replacement
The exceptional youngster could form a brilliant partnership with Declan Rice.