Premier League giants Arsenal are expected to announce their new intake of academy scholars for the 2026–27 season in the coming days.
Under Premier League regulations, all U17 players must begin the 2026–27 campaign on a scholarship agreement before they are eligible to sign their first professional contract on or after their 17th birthday.
Ahead of the club's official announcement, Arsenal youth team expert Jeorge Bird has revealed that highly-rated Nigerian left-back Hakeem Abubakar is among the latest group of academy scholars, having already signed a two-year scholarship deal.
For the upcoming season, Abubakar has earned a permanent promotion to Arsenal's U18 squad.
The defender is expected to wear the No. 85 shirt if he makes his debut in either the EFL Trophy or the Premier League.
The young Gunners returned for pre-season training last Friday, with Abubakar among the players involved in the first session at the Sobha Realty Training Centre.
Regarded as one of the academy's emerging leaders, Abubakar captained Arsenal U16s at the prestigious Liam Brady Cup in May 2026, underlining the leadership qualities that have impressed coaches.
In his final season as a schoolboy, the Hale End Academy graduate made six appearances in the U18 Premier League, including three starts.
Ifeanyi Emmanuel
Photo credit: arsenal.com
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