20-year-old Arsenal player not registered in Champions League squad, could be set for loan abroad

Upon Arsenal’s release of their Champions League squad yesterday, there were certainly one or two surprising decisions.

Arsenal fans will have been delighted to see Jurrien Timber’s name back in the fold, a signing who has been sorely missed this season.

It shouldn’t be understated just how crucial Timber appeared to Mikel Arteta’s plan this year, a player who offered a new dimension in defence.

But given this inclusion, it seems his return is now near.

That being said, there was also one surprise omission from Arsenal’s Champions League squad.

20-year-old Mauro Bandeira seemed almost certain to be included, even if he wasn’t likely to be involved in any match day squads.

The central midfielder spent the first half of the season on loan at Colchester United, returning at the start of January.

And journalist and Arsenal youth team expert Jeorge Bird was very surprised to learn of his omission yesterday.

Bird took to X to share his shock and his theory over what that could mean for Bandeira’s future.

Mauro Bandeira could leave Arsenal after Champions League squad exclusion

Bandeira has been with the club since 2019, when he joined from Queens Park Rangers.

And despite playing in 66 competitive games for Arsenal’s youth sides, he’s never made a senior appearance.

Bird thought Bandeira’s exclusion from Arsenal’s Champions League squad could mean he’s set to leave.

He said: “Mauro Bandeira not included in Champions League squad after returning from Colchester loan.

“Not sure why. Could perhaps suggest a loan to a country where the window is still open but will have to wait and see.”

https://twitter.com/jeorgebird/status/1754891892284658045

View Tweet

Of course, at his age it does seem as if Bandeira’s first team chance at Arsenal has come and gone.

Miguel Azeez left the club this month, and it certainly wouldn’t be a surprise if Bandeira followed.

That being said, one Arsenal youngster of a similar age is continuing to impress out on loan right now.

And although unlikely, it’ll be interesting to see if he is now forging a first team path for the future.