Gazidis hints at Arsenal academy rejuvenation

Arsenal chief executive Ivan Gazidis has dropped the biggest hint yet that the Gunners are set to complete an rejuvenation of the club’s youth and academy system.

In recent seasons Arsene Wenger’s side have released a number of youth players and young professionals who failed to break through into the first team at Emirates Stadium.

After continuous poor results for Arsenal’s Under-18s side this season, Gazidis hinted at the Arsenal Annual General Meeting that the north Londoners would soon be bringing in a ‘top class appointment’ to replace outgoing academy chief Liam Brady.

Ex-Arsenal midfielder Brady, who was responsible for developing numerous players including Jack Wilshere and Kieran Gibbs, is leaving his role at the end of the season.

Various managers and coaching staff across Europe have been linked with the soon-to-be vacant post, including Arsenal legend Dennis Bergkamp who is currently working as Frank de Boer’s No.2 at Ajax.

The 43-year-old has previously indicated a willingness to return to England as a coach, but says he has no interest in becoming a manager.

Who would you like to see become Arsenal’s new Head of Youth development? Leave your views and suggestions in the comments section below.