Arsenal's academy is facing another setback with 16-year-old prospect Mishel Nduka reportedly set to sign for rival club Manchester City. This development continues a trend of departures from the North London club's youth system.
Nduka, a skillful midfielder who turned 16 in April, joined Arsenal's academy in September 2025, having spent eight years with Charlton. Last season, he made two appearances for the Under-21 squad and participated in a UEFA Youth League Under-19 match against Club Bruges in December. He also regularly featured for the Under-18s, playing in 10 games in a division above his age group, and has earned seven caps for England's Under-16 team.
The Gunners had been keen to secure Nduka on an extended contract, with his current scholarship terms expiring on June 30. However, the youngster has opted to move to Manchester City. This decision comes amid recent changes within Arsenal's academy leadership, including the departure of academy manager Per Mertesacker, which may have complicated negotiations with young players.
The club recently appointed Pascal De Maesschalck from Strasbourg as their new academy director, a move expected to stabilize operations moving forward. Nduka's impending transfer to Manchester City follows other notable departures from Arsenal's youth setup, including Kyran Thompson, who is reportedly joining Tottenham Hotspur. Leicester City prospect Jeremy Monga, whom Arsenal had been considered frontrunners for, is also heading to Manchester City.