Arsenal have announced their under-16 squad for the 2026 Messi Cup, which begins on Sunday, October 25, in Miami, United States, according to a report published by Football London on Sunday, October 25, 2026.

The competition will feature 16 teams this year, representing a significant expansion from the eight sides that participated in its first edition in 2025. Arsenal will join fellow English clubs Chelsea and Manchester City in competing against leading youth academies from Europe and South America.

The young Gunners are scheduled to open their campaign against Newell’s Old Boys on Sunday. They will then face Spanish giants Barcelona on Monday before concluding their group-stage fixtures against Brazilian outfit Palmeiras on Tuesday.

Each of Arsenal’s three group matches is scheduled for 16:30 Eastern Daylight Time. However, the advertised kick-off times on UK television listings differ slightly, so fans should consult updated schedules to avoid confusion, particularly because British clocks will change during the tournament.

Supporters based in the United Kingdom will be able to follow Arsenal’s three group-stage encounters live on Disney+. The tournament provides an excellent platform for the academy players to challenge themselves against talented youngsters from some of the world’s leading football development programmes.

The group-stage standings will determine Arsenal’s route through the competition. A top-two finish would secure a place in the knockout bracket featuring the eight best-performing teams, while finishing third or fourth would see the club enter the lower bracket to compete for their final tournament positions.

Arsenal’s official selection includes Albie Shea, Kendrick Van Djoy, Jaden Maghoma, Abdul Zakari, Travis Chilard-Martin, Giovahn Jones, Reiss Tweneboa Kodua, Darius Odeyemi, Max Chuderski and Blake Day King.

The remaining squad members are Jayden Anidi, Fletcher McBryde, Beau Luton, Isaiah Matthews, Kayden Joseph, Leo Aliadiere, Khamil Hall, Jayce Smith, Onye Asiegbu and Frankie Wyatt. They will be looking to make a positive impression as Arsenal take on several formidable opponents.

Maghoma is one of the squad’s notable prospects, having already gained experience with Arsenal’s under-19 team despite his age. The youngster has also made five appearances for the under-18s this season, contributing two goals and two assists.

Another player attracting interest is Leo Aliadiere, the son of former Arsenal forward Jeremie Aliadiere, who has previously participated in England under-15 training camps. Chilard-Martin also presents an intriguing case, having represented both England and France at under-16 level during the current season.

For Arsenal’s youngsters, the Messi Cup offers more than just competitive football. The experience will allow them to develop against high-quality international opposition while showcasing their potential on a wider stage. Standout performances in Miami could help some of the players enhance their reputations and move closer to earning opportunities higher up Arsenal’s academy structure.