New Arsenal signing scores for u21s in 2-2 draw

James Scanlon marked his debut for Arsenal Under-21s with a goal as the new signing helped his side earn a 2-2 draw away to Brighton and Hove Albion Under-21s on Monday.

The 19-year-old winger, whose move from Manchester United was confirmed over the weekend, needed only 24 minutes to open his Arsenal account.

Scanlon collected a pass from Ife Ibrahim outside the box and found the bottom corner with a right-footed effort to give Arsenal the lead.

It was an immediate contribution from the Gibraltar international, who already has 24 senior caps and arrived after spending five years with Manchester United.

He had previously come through the academy at Derby County before moving to Old Trafford in 2021.

Scanlon had further opportunities after his goal, including a right-footed effort from the left side of the box that was blocked shortly before he was replaced by Louis Zecevic-John in the 63rd minute.

Arsenal had threatened even before taking the lead. Theo Julienne struck the right post with a left-footed shot in the 21st minute, three minutes before Scanlon made the breakthrough.

Brighton responded quickly after half-time. Younes Ibrahim drew the hosts level in the 48th minute with a left-footed strike from outside the box, assisted by Bailey Palmer.

Archie Stevens then struck the crossbar for Arsenal a minute later, but Brighton completed the turnaround in the 62nd minute. Palmer scored from outside the box after being set up by Younes Ibrahim to put the hosts 2-1 ahead.

Arsenal did not allow Scanlon’s debut goal to be wasted, however. With two minutes of normal time remaining, Evan Mooney found the bottom-right corner from the centre of the box after an assist from Zecevic-John, securing a 2-2 draw.

It gave Arsenal a point and Scanlon an encouraging first appearance only days after his arrival was announced, with the new winger already off the mark in his first game for the club.