Gedion Zelalem first caught the eye back in April 2013, during his debut for Arsenals Under-21 side. Although the Gunners went down 3-2 to Liverpool, Zelalem was a stand out, showing composure and skill beyond his age. A week later he impressed again, this time against Wolves Under-21s, as his side were on the correct end of a 3-2 score line. Last summer he was taken on Arsenals Asian tour, putting in a number of good performances. Despite being 16-years-old, the German was showing just why he is highly regarded by Wenger. Injuries have hampered his development a bit this season, but an FA Cup appearance against Coventry is just reward for a player who is surely destined for great things. Discovered by Daniel Karbassiyoon, Arsenals North American scout who also discovered Joel Campbell, Zelalem grew up in the United States of America. In January 2013 he was offered a place at the Arsenal academy, before signing a pro-contract with the club in March 2014, with Wenger saying he was excited to see how he develops. Comparisons have already been made between Cesc Fabregas and Zelalem, due to the players similarities in breaking into the first team set-up at just 16 years of age. The German certainly shares attributes with the Barcelona midfielder. He is incredibly composed in possession and has an eye for pass, but his slender build will need to be addressed if he is to make his mark in the Premier League.
Simon is an NCTJ qualified sports journalist. He has conducted interviews with Tony Adams and Peter Shilton, while also having work published in The Daily Telegraph and The Sun. Follow him on Twitter via @sr_collings.
