Can Reiss Nelson become a regular?

After signing a new four-year-deal, Reiss Nelson could be handed the chance to become a regular for Arsenal under Mikel Arteta. 

Nelson’s career has so far failed to take off but having contributed to the title push last season, Nelson could now have the chance to stake his claim in the side.

Obviously with European football beckoning for the Gunners, having a deeper squad with homegrown players will be important.

But Nelson seems well-liked at the Emirates and having played a key role in several games last season, this season could a perfect opportunity for the 23-year-old to realise his potential.

So far in his career, Nelson has failed to start more than ten league games in a single season, and it’s hard to see that changing next season.

Battling the likes of Gabriel Jesus, Bakayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli, all of whom hit double figures last season, it’s a struggle to see it happening.

However, Nelson’s unique dribbling ability, as well as link-up player with other technical players could be the key to winning tight games, as shown against Bournemouth.

What will Nelson bring next season for Mikel Arteta?

To put it bluntly, Nelson ticks a lot of boxes for Arteta.

As mentioned, he will count as a homegrown player in both domestic and European campaigns. But he’s also got plenty of ability and brings experience having played abroad on loan at both Hoffenheim and Feyenoord.

Despite playing just 11 games in the league, he managed to contribute to 4.76 progressive carriers according to FBRef, showing he’s getting into dangerous crossing areas which will undoubtedly become useful as the season wears on.

Not only that, but Arsenal ensure the value of the player is maintained should they come to sell Nelson who, at 23, will not want to be warming the bench for long periods of time and will expect regular game time throughout the 23/24 season.