Arsenal teenager Theo Julienne was spotted in training with the Gunners’ first team on Friday, suggesting he’s in line to return from injury against the Manchester City u21s.
Arsenal 18-year-old Theo Julienne has been a regular starter for the club’s u21 side in 2026 so far, making 10 starts in a row up until his injury against West Bromwich Albion earlier this month.
The setback ruled Julienne of Arsenal’s final regular season fixture against Crystal Palace, but there are indications he could be set for a comeback in their Premier League 2 play-off match against Manchester City.
Arsenal Youth report that Julienne was involved in first-team training on Friday, seemingly putting him in contention for the City game.
Having finished 14th in the Premier League 2 this season, Arsenal just narrowly scraped into the opening 16-team play-off round, but their league finish has earned them a tough matchup against third-place Manchester City.
Arsenal were eliminated by City in extra time of last season’s play-offs, so the draw offers an opportunity for revenge. But given the young Gunners’ form this season, it may not be an easy chance to take.
Max Porter’s team ended the season with just one win in their last six games, though they did win four of the previous five before that. Their form has been streaky to say the least.
Julienne’s return to Arsenal’s midfield would be a welcome boost, but there’s no doubt Saturday night’s hosts City come into the play-off as clear favourites.
The match will be played at the Joie Stadium in Manchester on Saturday, April 25th at 19:00 BST.
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