Per Mertesacker has delivered his verdict after Arsenal snapped up former Rangers youngster Archie Stevens, handing the winger his first professional deal following a successful trial period.
The 19-year-old found himself at a crossroads this summer after leaving Rangers when a new contract could not be agreed. Having joined the Scottish giants from AFC Wimbledon in 2022, Stevens made his senior debut at 16 in a League Cup tie against Queen of the South and later scored in the 2023 Scottish Youth Cup final. A loan spell at Dunfermline Athletic in the Championship last season added valuable minutes, but with his Rangers chapter closing, a new opportunity was required.
That opportunity came at Arsenal. Stevens impressed during under-21 pre-season clashes against Chelmsford City and Monaco II, convincing the Gunners to offer him a permanent deal. For academy director Mertesacker, the teenager’s performances have more than justified the move.
Per Mertesacker praises Archie Stevens after Arsenal deal
The former Arsenal defender has overseen a steady stream of young talent progressing from Hale End to the first team. His comments on Stevens suggest real optimism.
“Since Archie has been with us, he has really impressed as a person and player. He has fit into our environment seamlessly and has been really impressive in matches and in training. Archie has absolutely earned this next stage in his career with his professional contract with us.” — Per Mertesacker
The club statement echoed that sentiment, stressing that Stevens’ early experiences of senior football and adaptability would be key in his development under Max Porter’s under-21 side.
Archie Stevens career snapshot
| Club | Key Notes |
|---|---|
| Rangers | Joined from AFC Wimbledon in 2022, made debut at 16 vs Queen of the South |
| Rangers Youth | Scored in 2023 Scottish Youth Cup final |
| Dunfermline Athletic (loan) | 11 appearances in 2024/25 Scottish Championship |
| Arsenal U21 | Impressed in pre-season vs Chelmsford City and Monaco II, signed 2025 |
source: – 15 September 2025
These experiences illustrate both the promise and resilience Stevens has already shown, moving cities as a teenager and embracing senior football in Scotland before testing himself in England.
Analyst verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William believes Arsenal’s move for Stevens shows the Gunners’ strategy of spotting undervalued youth talent:
“Archie Stevens fits Arsenal’s academy model perfectly — a player with senior minutes under his belt but still young enough to develop in a structured environment. Rangers’ loss could be Arsenal’s gain. Per Mertesacker clearly sees qualities beyond raw talent, highlighting his character and seamless adaptation. Those traits often decide who makes the step from academy to first team.”
William added: “Arsenal’s under-21s provide a strong platform, and with the club competing in multiple competitions, Stevens could find himself closer to first-team opportunities than many expect.”
Key insights
- Archie Stevens has signed his first professional deal with Arsenal after leaving Rangers.
- The 19-year-old winger impressed during a trial and under-21 pre-season matches.
- Per Mertesacker praised Stevens’ attitude and performances.
- The winger made his Rangers debut at 16 and had a loan spell with Dunfermline Athletic.
- Arsenal see him as part of their under-21 squad for 2025/26 under Max Porter.
What’s next for Stevens and Arsenal
Stevens will join Arsenal’s under-21s for the current campaign, with the Premier League International Cup and EFL Trophy offering immediate competitive tests. Success there could accelerate his pathway, especially with Arsenal committed to integrating academy graduates under Mikel Arteta.
For Stevens, this represents a second chance to establish himself at elite level after leaving Rangers. With Mertesacker’s backing and Arsenal’s infrastructure, the teenager now has the platform to fulfil his early promise.
👉 Can Archie Stevens follow in the footsteps of Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe by breaking through from Arsenal’s academy to the first team?
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