Coach who spotted Arsenal talent Marcelo Flores compares him to ex-PL star

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Ipswich Town development coach Steve Foley has told the Daily Star that talented Arsenal youngster Marcelo Flores reminds him of former Premier League star Craig Bellamy.

The 17-year-old recently penned a first professional contract with the Gunners and he seems set for a bright future.

Flores was wanted by Barcelona and Manchester City prior to signing terms at the Emirates Stadium.

Foley first spotted the youngster playing in the Cayman Islands and was quick to sign him up to the Ipswich academy.

He knew he’d found a real gem when he first saw Flores and has been waxing lyrical about the attacker.

Foley told the Daily Star: “He stuck out like a sore thumb, he reminded me of a young Craig Bellamy. I just thought ‘Wow, who is this kid?’.

“He is quick, naturally fit and hungry for the ball – he doesn’t have to be told to go and get it back.

“Marcelo made a big impression.”

TBR View – Flores set for stardom

Despite his tender years, the Mexico under-18 player looks like becoming a real star in the future.

He has been a regular in the under-18 ranks this season, scoring three goals in five games.

The beauty of being at a club like Arsenal is that the pathway to the first-team is relatively clear.

Mikel Arteta has been keen to utilise the club’s academy ranks and that might bode well for Flores.

Typically a No.10, the former Ipswich youngster can also operate on either flank, with his versatility a useful asset.

The comparison to Bellamy should highlight his work rate and tenacity to drive forward with the ball.

A former Newcastle and Manchester City star, Bellamy played 294 times in the Premier League during his career.

If Flores ends up as good as the man who won 78 Wales caps, the Gunners could have a real talent on their hands.