Arsenal’s Eddie Nketiah has been called up to the England senior squad, a moment he describes as “the pinnacle of recognition” in his burgeoning career.

His sentiments echo the thoughts of an academy product who has scaled the heights of English football, from youth levels to the senior national team.

• Eddie Nketiah receives his first call-up to the senior England squad, describing it as the “pinnacle of recognition.”
• The Arsenal striker shares this milestone moment with family and friends, emphasizing its importance in his personal journey.
• Alongside Nketiah, fellow Arsenal teammate Bukayo Saka and others have also been called up, showing strong representation from the Emirates in the national team.

A childhood dream realised

Upon hearing the news of his inclusion in Gareth Southgate’s senior England squad, Eddie Nketiah expressed feelings of both pride and validation.

The Arsenal forward has worn the England kit at various age levels, and his rise to the senior team reflects a player fulfilling a lifelong aspiration.

Nketiah shared the defining moment with his closest family and friends, stating, “It was a nice moment for me.

“I was with all my family and a few of my friends were at the house as well, so it was a really nice moment. Obviously, it’s one that you can look back on and cherish because it’s been a long journey here, a few ups and downs, so it’s nice to have something to show for it and celebrate.

“It’s the pinnacle of recognition for a player that represents England, so I’m really happy to be there and looking forward to meeting up with the boys.” added Nketiah.

He credited his inclusion to his years of consistent performances at both the club and various youth levels for England.

Nketiah’s pathway from the youth groups to the senior squad marks a “natural progression” that he has been keen to make ever since stepping onto the football pitch.

While the announcement was deeply personal for Nketiah, he’ll find familiar faces in the England camp, as Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, and Aaron Ramsdale have also received call-ups.

“All the boys were really supportive and were hoping for me to join and link up with them,” he said.

Armed with support from teammates and family, Nketiah is setting his sights on demonstrating his qualities on the international stage.

He’s keen to “show my talents and hopefully help the team to get out there and contribute,” as he awaits to link up with England’s finest talents.

Arteta on Nketiah’s England call-up

Mikel Arteta was asked about Eddie’s call-up when he spoke to the press ahead of Arsenal’s game against Manchester United this weekend.

“I’m so pleased. If someone deserves to be in the England squad, that’s him,” Arteta said.

“He’s an academy player that had some moments when his pathway wasn’t very clear and he had to fight.

“I love his mentality, his work rate, how much he loves the game, and how hard he’s fought to be recognised at that level.

“In this country, to play there is phenomenal. I’m so happy for him.

“It has happened for a reason – the way he pushes himself every single day to be as best as he possibly can and give us everything.”