Former Arsenal midfielder Charlie Patino has expressed disappointment over the lack of a clear path to the first team, despite his strong development through the Hale End academy.
At just 21, Patino joined Deportivo La Coruña in August after season-long loans at Swansea and Blackpool. Despite being touted for a bright future at Arsenal, he made only two first-team appearances, including a goal in a 5-1 Carabao Cup victory against Sunderland in December 2021.
Reflecting on his time at the club, Patino stated, “I wanted to be involved more. I didn’t really get the communication or pathway I wanted or felt I deserved. But that’s life.” He remains optimistic, acknowledging that there are many opportunities beyond Arsenal: “You’re bettering yourself, giving yourself a better opportunity to play at a high level.”
Patino spent nine years at Arsenal after joining from Luton Town in 2015. Mikel Arteta previously mentioned a “clear route” for Patino into the first team, emphasizing the club’s commitment to player development. Patino had hoped to mirror the success of William Saliba, who made a name for himself through loan spells before breaking into the Arsenal XI. “It’s inspiring to see someone from Arsenal being able to go on loan, make a name for himself, and come back,” he noted.
