Young Gun: Michal Rosiak

Our Young Gun series gets to know the academy youngsters kicking off their careers at the Sobha Realty Training Centre.

Michal Rosiak spoke to us recently, and here's what the 19-year-old Polish midfielder had to say about a season he won't forget.

I’d say the season started well, and travelling to America with the first team for pre-season was an incredible experience. I actually found out I was going the day before the flight, as I was in the standby group. I wasn't sure whether I'd be heading to Slovenia with the under-21s, but once I got the confirmation I had only a day to pack and prepare. I was really excited for the opportunity. The difference between travelling with the first team and the academy is huge – the planes are bigger, everything is first class and the entire setup is on another level. 

While we were out there we had the chance to bond as a group off the pitch. We went out for dinner a couple of times and played Top Golf, which was a great laugh. As part of our initiation we had to sing in front of the squad, which was too funny. We originally performed on the fifth day, but Big Gabi made us do it again because he wasn’t impressed! The first time, I sang Love Yourself by Justin Bieber, and the second time, I went for Call Me Maybe – definitely a moment to remember. 

The difference between training with the first team and the academy is massive too. The speed and sharpness of the play, as well as the tactical depth, is on another level. At first it’s tough but you gradually adapt, and before long you get used to the intensity. It’s an invaluable experience because it helps you fully adjust to the demands of first-team football.

Unfortunately, I picked up an injury in a friendly against Ipswich, which ruled me out for nearly two months. That was a difficult period because it’s always tough to train away from the team, but I tried to make the most of it, using the time to rest and recover properly. As I got closer to full fitness, being back with the team was a huge motivation – it really drives you when you know you’re almost ready to return. 

When I came back I had a really positive start to the season, scoring on the opening day against Manchester United. I’ve managed to score a few more goals than usual this season, which I’m really pleased with. Everyone loves scoring, and it’s something I’ve been working on – adding more goals and assists to my game. Although I can play at right back, my main position is in central midfield.

"From a young age we knew Ethan and Myles were special talents"

This season has been fantastic for young players coming through Hale End and breaking into the first team, with Ethan and Myles leading the way. Even from a young age we knew they were special talents – they were playing above their age group for years. Now, seeing them perform at the highest level in the Premier League, Champions League and even on the international stage is incredible. 

Between now and the end of the season I just want to keep playing consistently at a high level and push myself further. I’ve also had the opportunity to captain the Arsenal under-19s in the UEFA Youth League, which has been a great experience. That competition brings together players from three or four different age groups, so my role as captain has been to help keep the team connected and united. 

Unfortunately we didn’t qualify for the next stage, but it was still a brilliant experience to play against teams from across Europe and test ourselves at that level.