‘They came over’: Charlie Patino shares what Bukayo Saka said to him in first day of Arsenal training

Add as preferred source on Google

Arsenal youngster Charlie Patino has revealed who supported him on his first day of first-team training.

The 19-year-old is highly thought of at the Emirates, with a big future ahead of him at the club under boss Mikel Arteta.

Patino scored on his Gunners debut against Sunderland in the Carabao Cup back in 2021, before enjoying a loan spell at Blackpool despite relegation.

This season, Patino has enjoyed a great spell at Swansea City, with one goal and three assists in six league games – with the 19-year-old looking to force himself into the first-team picture in the near future.

Patino on who helped him settle at Arsenal

Speaking in an interview with the MailOnline, Patino spoke highly of three first-team players who made him feel at home during his first training session.

“When I first went over to train with the first team, Emile [Smith-Rowe], Eddie [Nketiah], Bukayo [Saka], they came over to me.

“They put their arms around my shoulder and just said, “Enjoy yourself, play with a smile on your face and just express yourself”.’

The future is bright for Patino

Despite rumours he wanted to leave on a permanent basis this summer, Patino decided a loan spell would be best to allow him to flourish before coming back to challenge for a first-team spot next season.

The 19-year-old is excelling in Wales, with his performances earning him a call-up to the England U21 squad during this international break.

He certainly looks to be a talent, with Arteta a great boss for him to develop – given his track record with the current crop of youngsters in the Gunners’ first-team.