By signing a former Blues youth player to his first professional deal at the Emirates Stadium, Arsenal has resumed their assault on London rivals Chelsea. In an attempt to strengthen their attacking options before the 2025–2026 Premier League season, the Gunners made the transfer the same week when new information surfaced regarding Noni Madueke’s £52 million move across the capital.
Despite finishing second in the Premier League for three consecutive years, Mikel Arteta’s team hasn’t wasted any time this summer adding players. Christian Norgaard, Martin Zubimendi, and Kepa Arrizabalaga have already entered the north London location. It appears Arsenal is also making plans for the future, even if the headlines have primarily been on signings who can have an instant influence on the team’s pursuit of a long-awaited first league title in more than 20 years.
After leaving Chelsea’s youth divisions last season, Marcell Washington, the son of Ryan Bertrand, the Blues’ hero in the Champions League final, has now signed his first professional contract with the team.
Ryan Bertrand’s Son Signs Professional Contract with Arsenal
The 17-year-old left-back joined Arsenal from their neighbours as a triallist last season
The Gunners gave the 17-year-old his first professional contract after he showed promise during his club trials. Washington will be keen to impress his coaches right away, just like his father did at Chelsea when Bertrand made his debut in the 2012 Champions League final and the Blues won their first major European title under Roberto Di Matteo.
“I think it’s been such an honor to have him [his father] take me through clips and walk me through games that I’ve played,” Washington stated after he signed his three-year contract, according to The Sun.
He has a strong desire to improve myself as a player and most likely as a person. You get it out of him, although we may argue a little bit over it. It’s a really large club, in my opinion. The team is constantly working to take home medals. All I want is to contribute to it and see what I can do for the club.
The gifted defender, who now wears number 55 for Arsenal, is prepared to face players like Myles Lewis-Skelly and Jurrien Timber for a spot in the starting lineup in the future.
“I think it’s a great thing that they all play in and around my position, and it’s also great to train with them and get the opportunity because you obviously want to learn from players with such experience and high skill with all of the games,” he continued.
xz
