London-born Nigerian midfielder Ife Ibrahim made his official debut for Arsenal as they secured a 3-2 victory over Kairat Almaty in a UEFA Champions League clash at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday night.

The Hale End Academy graduate earned his first call-up to the first-team squad for the fixture against the Kazakhstani side, just days after he signed his first professional contract, eleven years after joining Arsenal.

He was spotted training with the first team on the eve of the Champions League match, and it was not to make up the numbers, with manager Mikel Arteta selecting him for the matchday squad against Kairat Almaty.

Wearing the number 72, he came off the bench to replace Christian Nørgaard in the 89th minute.

Arsenal sealed their eighth straight Champions League group stage win and Arteta's 200th victory in charge with goals from Viktor Gyokeres, Kai Havertz and Gabriel Martinelli, while Jorginho and Ricardinho netted for the visitors.

Ibrahim made more appearances at U18 level last season than any other Arsenal player, and has featured in 17 matches for the youth teams this term. 

The 18-year-old has represented England at U15 and U18 levels but remains eligible to play for Nigeria as his appearances for the Young Lions were in friendly matches.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

Photo Credit: arsenal.com