Released Arsenal 19yo goes on trial
Brian Okonkwo seems to be about to sign the team of under 21 of West Bromwich Albion after a successful test, marking the next stage of his career after being released by Arsenal earlier this summer.
Photo via arsenal.com
The 19-year-old goalkeeper started for the under 21 of West Brom in his Premier League 2 match against Aston Villa in Damson Park on Monday, a match they lost 3-1.
Okonkwo spent seven years in Arsenal after joining the academy in 2018. At first, he converted into a goalkeeper and progressed in the ranks of young people to make seven appearances for those under 21, conceding 14 goals and retaining a cleaning sheet.
He signed a professional contract in 2024 but was released during his expiration a year later.
Photo via arsenal.com
He acquired a senior experience thanks to loan spells to Hitchin Town, Cheshunt and Leatherhead, and made four appearances for Hitchin last season in the Central Division of the South, where his performances won praise despite the limited opportunities.
Okonkwo, the younger brother of Arthur OkonkwoNow in Wrexham, has not made a senior appearance for Arsenal. His release at the end of June is part of an elegant elegant of young players with limited prospects of the first team.
The West Brom under -21 team is currently at the bottom of the Premier League 2 after two defeats, and Okonkwo’s arrival would offer both long -term coverage and potential.
For the teenager, this is an opportunity to restore his career in English football after leaving Hale End without entering the first team.