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Arsenal U16s Debut in Inaugural Messi Cup
25 Oct
Summary
- Arsenal U16s will make their debut in the expanded 2026 Messi Cup.
- The tournament features 16 teams, including other English clubs like Chelsea and Man City.
- Key players to watch include Jaden Maghoma and Leo Aliadiere, son of Jeremie Aliadiere.
The 2026 Messi Cup is set to begin on Sunday, marking the second year of the tournament and its expansion to 16 participating teams. Arsenal's U16 squad has been finalized for their debut appearance. English clubs Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester City are among the participants.
The tournament will feature a diverse lineup of international clubs, including River Plate, AFC Ajax, Inter Milan, FC Barcelona, Palmeiras, Newell's Old Boys, Atletico Madrid, Benfica, Independiente del Valle, Inter Miami, Boca Juniors, Flamengo, and UE Cornella.
Arsenal's group stage schedule has been confirmed, with all matches scheduled for 16:30 EDT (21:30 BST/20:30 GMT), and will be broadcast on Disney+ in the UK. The team's progression will depend on their group stage performance, with subsequent knockout matches determining their final ranking.
Notable players in the Arsenal squad include Jaden Maghoma, who has impressed for the U18s, and Leo Aliadiere, son of former Arsenal player Jeremie Aliadiere. Travis Chilard-Martin is also noted for his recent international debuts for both England and France U16s.
