What Happened to Gedion Zelalem? The Former USMNT Target and Arsenal Starlet Who Was Compared to Cesc Fabregas

Gedion Zelalem, a highly promising talent once hailed as the next Cesc Fabregas, had a tumultuous journey after bursting onto the scene with Arsenal. This article will explore the ups and downs of Zelalem’s career, shedding light on his current situation and what led to his decline.

Early Career and Arsenal Days

At a young age, Gedion Zelalem caught the attention of Arsenal scouts with his exceptional technical abilities and on-field vision. Born on January 26, 1997, in Berlin, Germany, Zelalem possessed dual citizenship, which piqued the interest of both the United States and Germany national teams.

Rise to Prominence

Zelalem quickly rose through the ranks of Arsenal’s youth system, impressing coaches and teammates alike. His elegant playing style and ability to dictate the flow of the game drew comparisons to the highly accomplished Cesc Fabregas, who had thrived in Arsenal’s midfield just a few years earlier.

USMNT Connection

With his dual citizenship, Zelalem faced a tough decision regarding his international career. Eventually, he pledged his allegiance to the United States and made his debut for the U.S. Men’s National Team in 2015. There was great optimism surrounding his inclusion, as he was seen as a potential game-changer for the USMNT.

Loan Spells and Limited Opportunities

Despite the immense potential he showcased, Zelalem struggled to break into Arsenal’s first team. The club sent him on loan to gain valuable experience and playing time. Zelalem had stints at Rangers in Scotland, VVV-Venlo in the Netherlands, and Sporting Kansas City in Major League Soccer.

Injuries and Setbacks

Unfortunately, injuries plagued Zelalem during crucial stages of his career. These setbacks disrupted his progress and hindered him from making a significant impact in any of his loan spells. The lack of consistent playing time and fitness issues put a dent in his development.

Departure from Arsenal

Zelalem’s time at Arsenal came to an end in 2019 when the club decided not to renew his contract. Despite the initial promise he showed, Zelalem failed to fulfill the high expectations set for him. Arsenal’s decision marked a turning point in his career, prompting him to seek new opportunities elsewhere.

Current Situation

As of now, Gedion Zelalem is a free agent, looking for a fresh start and a club that can reignite his career. The road ahead may be challenging, but there is still hope that he can bounce back and fulfill his potential. Zelalem, at just 24 years old, still has time to revive his career and make a name for himself in the world of football.

Gedion Zelalem’s journey from being compared to Cesc Fabregas to his current free-agent status has been a rollercoaster ride. Injuries, limited opportunities, and the pressure to live up to the early hype have hindered his progress. However, with the right guidance and an opportunity to regain his form, Zelalem could still become the player many believed he would be. Football fans around the world will be eagerly watching to see where his career takes him next.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any football club or organization.