French youngster Ismael Bennacer has signed a five-year contract with Arsenal and was present at yesterday's FA Community Shield at Wembley.
The highly rated 17-year-old played for Arles-Avignon's reserve side just a year ago, with only sporadic Ligue 2 appearances last term, but is now looking forward to life at the Emirates Stadium under Arsene Wenger, who is renowned for developing and then trusting in young talents.
Bennacer, who was in the crowd at Wembley as Arsenal beat Chelsea 1-0 to lift the Community Shield, is excited about the move and revealed that Wenger has already put his trust in his talents.
"I was a little apprehensive at the idea of going abroad too", the midfielder told French sports daily L'Equipe.
"I've never gone anywhere else. I thought I'd rather stay in France to get playing time", the 17-year-old continued.
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Bennacer explained that he thinks Arsenal are "the most French of English clubs", while also letting slip a conversation he had with Wenger when he went to the Gunners on a one-week trial early last month.
"He said he was pleased with me and that I had the potential to succeed here", the midfielder added.
Bennacer will now put his mind to emulating a number of young talents at Arsenal, who have risen through the ranks to be handed first team opportunities early on by Wenger, who is not afraid to trust in youth.
