Arsenal have 'big hopes' for O'Neill - Arteta

What the report says

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta says he has been impressed by Northern Ireland international Ceadach O'Neill, describing the 18-year-old as mature, focused and full of potential. The comments came after Arsenal’s pre-season defeat by Real Betis in Dublin, where O'Neill was involved in the squad and has also featured in a friendly against Girona this month. He has additionally scored in a behind-closed-doors match against MK Dons, underlining his progress at club level.

BBC Sport reports that O'Neill, a former Linfield winger, first drew wider attention after a strong academy return for Arsenal, scoring 18 goals in 30 games. He then earned a call-up to Northern Ireland before making a senior club appearance, and made his international debut in June friendlies against Guinea and France. Those outings, O'Neill said, have helped him adapt as he continues pre-season with Arsenal.

Arteta said the club has “big hopes” for the teenager but stressed that his development needs to be managed carefully. The wider context is that Arsenal are assessing young players during pre-season while O'Neill balances club ambitions with international prospects. He remains eligible to represent the Republic of Ireland, and BBC Sport notes that he has spoken with Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill as he looks ahead to future selection and to the Nations League campaign next month.