Arsenal youngster Charlie Patino has revealed who supported him on his first day of first-team training.
The 19-year-old is highly thought of at the Emirates, with a big future ahead of him at the club under boss Mikel Arteta.
Patino scored on his Gunners debut against Sunderland in the Carabao Cup back in 2021, before enjoying a loan spell at Blackpool despite relegation.
This season, Patino has enjoyed a great spell at Swansea City, with one goal and three assists in six league games – with the 19-year-old looking to force himself into the first-team picture in the near future.
Patino on who helped him settle at Arsenal
Speaking in an interview with the MailOnline, Patino spoke highly of three first-team players who made him feel at home during his first training session.
“When I first went over to train with the first team, Emile [Smith-Rowe], Eddie [Nketiah], Bukayo [Saka], they came over to me.
“They put their arms around my shoulder and just said, “Enjoy yourself, play with a smile on your face and just express yourself”.’
The future is bright for Patino
Despite rumours he wanted to leave on a permanent basis this summer, Patino decided a loan spell would be best to allow him to flourish before coming back to challenge for a first-team spot next season.
The 19-year-old is excelling in Wales, with his performances earning him a call-up to the England U21 squad during this international break.
He certainly looks to be a talent, with Arteta a great boss for him to develop – given his track record with the current crop of youngsters in the Gunners’ first-team.