Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta says he has been struck by the maturity and focus of Northern Ireland international Ceadach O’Neill.
The 18-year-old, who won his first senior cap in June, has taken part in Arsenal’s pre-season, featuring in friendlies against Girona and Real Betis this month. He also scored in a behind-closed-doors match with MK Dons.
Speaking after Wednesday’s 3-1 defeat to Betis in Dublin, Arteta told BBC Sport NI’s Thomas Kane that O’Neill is unusually mature for his age, highly focused, and possesses excellent quality. He added that the club has high hopes for the winger and is determined to guide his development properly.
O’Neill earned a Northern Ireland call-up on the back of 18 goals in 30 games for Arsenal’s academy, before making a senior appearance for the Premier League champions. He debuted off the bench in a June friendly against Guinea and played again four days later against France—experiences he believes have helped him prepare for pre-season.
Still eligible for the Republic of Ireland, O’Neill said he hopes to be involved with Northern Ireland again for their Nations League opener away to Georgia next month, but for now he is concentrating on his club career. He noted he’s taking things day by day, giving his best, has recently spoken with Michael O’Neill, and is focused on pushing forward at Arsenal, adding that he’s enjoying his current situation.