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Josh Nichols’ inclusion in Arsenal’s squad for the pre-season tour of the United States may not have raised eyebrows initially. With the team missing a few senior players due to international duties, the opportunity to showcase youth talents like Nichols seemed perfect for Mikel Arteta. However, what did raise eyebrows was how the 18-year-old right-back performed.

When Nichols started the first match and then played in the second pre-season game, he appeared composed and assured, not at all out of place on the pitch. His defensive awareness was evident as he took on seasoned opponents.

Standing at six feet tall, Nichols is still growing into his frame. His playing style is aggressive yet calculated, often applying pressure on wingers and tracking back with impressive pace when needed. Though occasionally his inexperience can show in the form of lapses, the young defender demonstrates promise beyond his years.

• Strengths on the Ball

While Nichols’ defensive capabilities are clear, it’s his technical ability on the ball that sets him apart. Like many modern full-backs, he’s comfortable pushing forward into the midfield, a skill likely honed from his early years in Arsenal’s academy.

His passing range is excellent, delivering accurate long balls from deep positions, something that Arteta’s system thrives on. His dribbling skills, too, add a dynamic edge to his game, as he often finds himself carrying the ball up the pitch to break opposition lines.

• Career So Far

Josh Nichols’ career began when he joined Arsenal’s academy at the age of eight. Over the years, he developed his craft and solidified his place as a key figure in the U21 side. His big breakthrough came in 2024 when he signed his first professional contract, making his senior debut shortly after in an EFL Cup match against Bolton Wanderers.

Born in London, Nichols has attracted attention for his eligibility to represent multiple nations at the international level, including Nigeria and Jamaica, through his parents. With his impressive performances in the pre-season and competitive debut, Nichols has become a regular sight in first-team training sessions and is on the cusp of cementing a role in Arsenal’s senior squad.

A Brave Display in the US

Nichols’ display during the pre-season tour showcased his fearless mentality. In one moment, he squared up against seasoned Manchester United players, demonstrating not just his defensive acumen but also his willingness to take the ball forward. His calm composure under pressure impressed many, and his maturity on the field belied his age.

• A look into the future

Josh Nichols has drawn comparisons to Arsenal’s current first-choice right-back, Ben White, and former Hale End graduate Héctor Bellerín. Like White, Nichols shows an excellent understanding of positioning and an ability to contribute both defensively and offensively.

His technical skill set, including his composure on the ball and precise passing, also mirrors White’s versatility, which is crucial for Arteta’s system. Nichols shares Bellerín’s speed and dribbling ability, making him a dangerous attacking threat when moving forward. However, to reach the level of consistency and reliability expected of a starting right-back, Nichols needs to refine his decision-making under pressure, particularly when defending one-on-one situations.

At times, his eagerness to engage can lead to misjudgments, and improving his defensive timing will be key to his growth. Additionally, he can work on crossing accuracy from deeper positions, a vital element of Arsenal’s attacking play.

As Nichols continues to develop, a loan move may present the perfect opportunity for him to gain first-team experience at a competitive level. Clubs in the Championship, like Middlesbrough or Swansea City, would provide Nichols with a chance to develop in a physically demanding environment, while also testing his consistency.

Alternatively, a move to a Premier League club lower in the table, such as Southampton or Everton, both of whom are struggling on the defensive end, could see him adapt to the intensity of top-flight football while still receiving regular game time. There’s also the option of moving abroad, to a club in the Eredivisie or Ligue 1, where his technical attributes and attacking instincts could be further refined.

Whichever path Nichols takes, regular minutes in a competitive setting will help him iron out the finer details of his game, making him better prepared to return to Arsenal and challenge for a first-team spot.