Harrison Dudziak has left Arsenal on an initial one-month loan, with the midfielder joining Braintree Town until January 21 as he takes his first step into senior football.
The 19-year-old, who has progressed through the club’s academy for nearly a decade, will link up with his new side immediately and, according to Arsenal, is in contention to feature against Hartlepool United after Christmas.
Dudziak joined Arsenal’s academy in June 2016 and signed his first professional contract in June 2024, having captained the under 18s and established himself as a senior figure within the age group.
Initially a central midfielder, he has been used in more advanced roles and has been praised for his work rate, range of passing and positional intelligence.
The loan to Braintree represents his first taste of men’s football after seven appearances with the u21s this season and 12 last season. The Essex club compete in the National League with a reputation for providing opportunities to young players looking to bridge the gap between academy and senior football.
Internationally, Dudziak has represented England at youth level but remains eligible for Poland.
For now, the focus is on gaining experience and minutes, with Arsenal monitoring his progress closely during what is expected to be an important period in his development.
He will turn 20 during his short loan spell.