Arsenal’s academy is one of the most prestigious in world football. Cesc Fabregas is undoubtedly the most famous product and even though the majority of players won’t make it at Arsenal, a lot find their feet in the world of professional football.

The Arsenal faithful often look to their star players Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez for inspiration and to guide Arsenal FC to victory. However if you look back at the past couple of seasons, certain Arsenal academy products have played influential roles in the club’s success.

When Mathieu Debuchy suffered an unfortunate shoulder injury in January 2015, Hector Bellerin came in to replace him. The former ‘La Masia’ product was highly touted and soon established himself as Arsenal’s undisputed right back and is now one of top full-backs in world football.

Who can forget the impact of Francis Coquelin? Mikel Arteta and Mathieu Flamini were proving themselves incumbent at the defensive midfield position and Coquelin capitalised after being recalled from a loan spell at Charlton Athletic. The enforcer brought tenacity and energy to the middle of the park and gave Arsenal the balance they needed.

Arsenal are lucky to have Ozil and Sanchez playing behind Olivier Giroud but the right flank had been a problem position for the Gunners. Theo Walcott, Jack Wilshere and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain couldn’t stay fit, Aaron Ramsey had made plain his desire to play central and Arsene Wenger never seemed entirely fond of Joel Campbell.

Then came Alex Iwobi. The Nigerian Super Eagle burst onto the scene and was a pivotal player towards the end of last season and now has Arsenal fans salivating heading into the new campaign.

The question is who will be this year’s Alex Iwobi? Is there another Arsenal youngster who could break through into the first team squad and establish themselves as a vital cog in the machine at the Emirates?

Let’s have a look at the players who I believe have a genuine opportunity to make a name for themselves in the first team this season, starting at No. 3.