Back in the 2016/17 season, Arsenal’s Hale End academy was bursting with some incredible young talent. Among the standout names were Donyell Malen, Joe Willock, Emile Smith Rowe, Eddie Nketiah, and Nathan Tella. Each of these players carried huge potential, and while their paths have taken different directions, they all left their mark in one way or another.
Some of them went on to establish themselves as regulars in the Premier League. Emile Smith Rowe, for instance, became a fan favorite at Arsenal with his creative spark and ability to produce big moments, especially during his breakthrough campaign. Eddie Nketiah, though often debated among fans, stayed loyal to the club for years and contributed key goals whenever called upon. Joe Willock eventually found his rhythm at Newcastle, where his box-to-box energy and knack for scoring vital goals made him a key figure.
Others chose different routes and flourished abroad. Donyell Malen left Arsenal to develop in the Netherlands and later became an exciting forward for PSV before earning a move to Borussia Dortmund, where he continues to showcase his pace and finishing ability on the big stage. Nathan Tella, meanwhile, carved out a successful career outside of Arsenal, proving that sometimes leaving the Hale End system can be the right decision to unlock true potential.
What’s fascinating about this group is how differently their careers unfolded despite starting from the same academy. Some became reliable squad members in England’s top flight, others took their skills across Europe, yet all of them stand as proof of the incredible production line Arsenal’s academy has been over the years.
So, looking at their journeys today — from Smith Rowe’s technical flair, to Malen’s sharpness in Europe, to Willock’s consistency at Newcastle, to Nketiah’s resilience, and Tella’s growth outside Arsenal — the big question remains: which one do you rate the highest right now?
