Omotara Junaid, a Super Falcons eligible midfielder, has been appointed as the new captain of Arsenal Women’s U21 team for the 2024-2025 season. The 16 year old, who is also an England U17 international, signed a new two year deal with Arsenal before being promoted to the U21 squad. She was invited to train with the Arsenal first team in August and made her unofficial senior debut in a pre season friendly against Southampton, coming on as a substitute in the 87th minute.
Junaid impressed during her brief time on the field, completing nearly all her passes and handling the pressure of facing older players with ease. Her appointment as captain marks a significant step in her young career, and she is expected to play a key role for Arsenal’s U21 team over the next two seasons.
Editorial
Omotara Junaid’s rapid rise in the Arsenal ranks is a testament to her skill, maturity, and leadership qualities. Being named captain of the U21 team at just 16 years old reflects the trust that the coaching staff has in her abilities both on and off the field. Her unofficial senior debut in a pre-season friendly is also a strong indication of her potential to break into the first team shortly.
As a player eligible for the Super Falcons, Junaid’s development will be closely watched by both Arsenal and Nigerian football fans. Her performances at the U21 level, combined with her international experience with England’s youth teams, position her as a future star in women’s football.
Junaid’s leadership qualities, technical ability, and composure on the ball make her a standout talent, and her journey over the next few seasons will be one to follow closely.
Did You Know?
- Omotara Junaid was only 16 years old when she made her unofficial senior debut for Arsenal in a pre season friendly.
- She has represented England at the U17 level but remains eligible to play for Nigeria’s Super Falcons.
- Junaid has been appointed as the captain of Arsenal Women’s U21 team for the 2024-2025 season.
- She was promoted to Arsenal’s U21 team after signing a new two year deal with the club.
- Junaid’s leadership and footballing ability have earned her a place in Arsenal’s U21 squad, with the potential to break into the first team.