Marli Salmon became the sixth youngest player to feature in the Champions League, substituting in Arsenal's 3-0 win at Club Brugge. The 16-year-old defender entered for Ben White late in the match at Jan Breydelstadion. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta praised the academy's role in preparing such talents.
Arsenal secured a 3-0 victory over Club Brugge in the Champions League, maintaining their unbeaten record after six matches and topping their group. During the game at Jan Breydelstadion, 16-year-old defender Marli Salmon made his debut as a late substitute for Ben White. At 16 years and 103 days old, Salmon ranks as the sixth youngest player to appear in the competition's history.
Salmon, wearing number 89, is described by Arsenal as a gifted, ball-playing center back who joined the academy at under-11 level. This marked his first Champions League outing, ahead of any senior domestic league or cup appearances for the club. He had previously played for the under-21s in the Football League Trophy in September.
Mikel Arteta commented on the substitution: “We knew that at some point we had to use him.” He added, “He’s so young, 16 still, and he’s playing in the Champions League.” Arteta highlighted the academy's efforts: “That’s why we put so much work and everybody in the academy puts (in) so much enthusiasm and work. And for a long time, you have to prepare those talents. So, thanks to them, because when we need them, they are there, they are ready to perform.”
Salmon is not Arsenal's youngest debutant this season; that honor goes to Max Dowman, who was 15 years and 308 days old when he substituted against Slavia Prague last month. According to UEFA, Arsenal has now fielded three players aged 16 or younger in the Champions League, including former midfielder Jack Wilshere.
Dowman holds the record as the youngest ever in the competition, surpassing Youssoufa Moukoko's mark of 16 years and 18 days for Borussia Dortmund in 2020. Barcelona's Lamine Yamal is third youngest at 16 years and 68 days in 2023.
Arsenal's strong campaign positions them as favorites to win the tournament, per betting markets and expert views, as they await their knockout stage opponent.
