Eddie Nketiah

Edward Keddar Nketiah was born on 30th May 1999 in Lewisham, London, England. Growing up in London, Eddie Nketiah began his journey in football at a young age, joining a local club, before being spotted by scouts during youth matches. His early life was heavily influenced by the diverse community he was raised in, which also fuelled his passion for football.

Eddie Nketiah joined Arsenal's youth academy from Chelsea in 2015. At Chelsea, he was released due to his slight frame, but Arsenal quickly spotted his potential and brought him into their academy system. At Arsenal's youth academy, Nketiah's goal-scoring abilities began to shine, as he worked his way through the ranks with his relentless pace and keen sense of positioning.

Eddie Nketiah made his professional debut for Arsenal on September 28, 2017, in a Europa League match against BATE Borisov. Although he did not score in the match, his debut was seen as a significant step in his career. Nketiah's work rate and determination were praised, and it marked his transition from a promising academy player to a professional at a top club.

Eddie Nketiah came on as a substitute and scored twice during a League Cup (EFL Cup) match against Norwich City on October 24, 2017. His goals were crucial in helping Arsenal come from behind to win the game 2-1 in extra time. This performance brought him considerable attention and praise, marking him as one to watch for the future in English football.

Nketiah made his Premier League debut on May 8, 2018, during a match against Burnley. Coming on as a substitute, he showcased his readiness to compete at the top level. Although the match was comfortable for Arsenal, Nketiah's inclusion highlighted the faith the club had in his abilities to perform on big stages, setting the scene for his future contributions to the team.

In the summer of 2019, Eddie Nketiah joined Leeds United on loan for the season. This was an opportunity for him to gain regular first-team experience in the Championship under manager Marcelo Bielsa. Nketiah's time at Leeds was marked by some important goals that contributed to Leeds' successful campaign, although he found regular starting time hard to come by due to tactical preferences.

Eddie Nketiah scored his first goal for Leeds United on August 13, 2019, in a Carabao Cup match against Salford City. His goal helped lead Leeds to a 3-0 victory. This goal was an important milestone for Nketiah as he sought to prove himself and earn more playing time while on loan at the historic club. Fans began to see his potential as a key forward.

Nketiah returned to Arsenal in January 2020 from his loan at Leeds United. He was recalled by Arsenal due to their need for attacking reinforcements and the limited appearances he was making at Leeds. His return marked the beginning of a more integrated role in the Arsenal first team, providing backup and competition for established strikers at the club.

On October 26, 2021, Eddie Nketiah scored a superb hat-trick in an EFL Trophy match for Arsenal U23s against the Ipswich Town U23s. His performance was lauded as he demonstrated his sharpness and clinical finishing once more. The hat-trick further reinforced his goal-scoring prowess across different levels, from youth competitions to senior matches.

In the 2023/2024 season, Eddie Nketiah was handed the iconic number 14 shirt at Arsenal, a number famously worn by Thierry Henry. This was a significant moment in Nketiah's career, symbolizing trust and expectation placed on him by the club. The number is part of the club’s heritage and speaks to the level of faith and responsibility that Arsenal sees in his abilities.