Former Arsenal academy star Nathan Tella is eagerly anticipating his return to north London on Wednesday night when German champions Bayer Leverkusen face off against Arsenal in the Emirates Cup.
Tella, who joined Arsenal’s academy at the age of seven, spent 10 years progressing through the youth ranks. However, as a member of the highly competitive 2015/16 intake, his opportunities were limited, prompting him to seek success elsewhere.
Following a series of trials, Tella made a permanent move to Southampton. After an outstanding season on loan at Burnley in 2022/23, Bayer Leverkusen, under the management of Xabi Alonso, secured his services.
On Wednesday, Tella returns as a Bundesliga and DFB Pokal champion, ready to play at the stadium of his childhood dreams. “Wednesday’s game definitely feels like a homecoming for me,” said Tella in an interview on the official Arsenal website. “I’m still an Arsenal fan and I always look out for Arsenal’s results. The club means a lot to me.
