Arsenal Vs Eintracht Frankfurt: Let’s see the special Reiss Nelson

Reiss Nelson returned to Arsenal in high spirits. But so far this season, he has failed to truly shine. Could we see the special Nelson against Eintracht Frankfurt on Thursday night?

It was a little over two years ago that Reiss Nelson showcased his full potential. On the pre-season tour of Australia as a 17-year-old making his first appearances for the senior team, the Arsenal youngster flourished, his skilful dribbling, speedy wing play, and eye for goal illustrating just how gifted he was.

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Such was the excitement surrounding his performances, expectations rose dramatically. And in limited action in his first season, Nelson again showcased his qualities against higher-level opposition. Then, as he furthered his progression, a season-long loan to Bundesliga side Hoffenheim. He scored prolifically, though never played regularly, and returned to north London this summer keen to make hay in the Arsenal first team.

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It was very positive, then, when he started the first two matches of the season. On deadline day, Alex Iwobi was sold, a clear indication that head coach Unai Emery was ready to trust Nelson in an expanded role, and then Henrikh Mkhitaryan was loaned out to Roma, further proof of Emery’s belief in Nelson’s ability and readiness. However, so far this season, his performances have been a little underwhelming.

There have been the noticeable touches and moments where his skill comes to the fore. He has played some lovely passes at times, beat defenders at others, and got off two or three dangerous shots at goal. But largely, Nelson has lacked consistency, from even within games. One touch to the other, he struggles with the small things. Protecting the ball, playing the simple passes, knowing when to drive at defenders and when to play more simply. These, of course, will come with experience, but they have slighted the general perspective of Nelson’s performances so far this season.

I am one of his greatest believers. I think he is extremely talented and has a very bright future ahead of him. But he is yet to rip apart a game as he hoped he might. Even in the pre-season, he never had that catalysing impact that I was hoping to see upon his north London return.

With Nicolas Pepe’s improved fitness, Nelson dropped to the bench for the third match of the season. He has played only 19 minutes since then, a rather underwhelming late cameo against Watford on Sunday in which lost possession on three occasions, failed on his only dribble attempt, and completed only 80% of his passes — with your team trying to see out the game, this is not what you need.

Perhaps, then, Thursday night’s Europa League opener against Eintracht Frankfurt could be the stage for Nelson to finally flourish as the star of the show. The 19-year-old is expected to start, with Emery likely to rotate through his squad. Away from the bright lights of the Premier League, could this finally be the match that he wrestles under his magical control?

I want to see the special Reiss Nelson, the Reiss Nelson who dazzles with every touch, who dances and darts, who ducks and drives. I want to see the best Reiss Nelson, because so far this season, he has been difficult to find.