Arsenal goalkeeper Alexei Rojas had some doubts when choosing the national team he’d play for, as he’s been through England, Colombia and Russia youth ranks in the past few years.
He seems to have settled with the South American country, though, where he’s been part of the U20 national team recently.
That’s why he’s today featured in an interview with Colombian outlet RCN, and he talked about what’s been happening to him at Arsenal.
Rojas revealed that he’s been able to train with the first team staff, and that has been a huge experience for him.
“During international breaks or the day after a game when the first team players are recovering, there is often the opportunity to train with the first team. I have been with Iñaki Caña and Terry Mason, the goalkeeping assistant,” Rojas told RCN.
“You train with them, especially with the goalkeepers, with Karl Hein, who is the third goalkeeper in the professional squad. Obviously he gives me advice, their level is good to see where we can improve. All the players are friendly with the youngsters, they help us. That’s positive and we feel good training with them.”
“I always learn a lot, I come away knowing new things about it. They are useful for me and they are high level players, so I can continue to grow in my development. With Mikel Arteta I’ve exchanged words, I’ve said hello, but not much. However, the times I’ve spoken to him I’ve realised that he knows a lot about football, he has knowledge. It’s no surprise because of his experience as a player at Barcelona, Everton, Arsenal and because he worked with Guardiola.”
Rojas had previously been at Chelsea’s academy. He joined Arsenal in 2022, and has now been playing for the Gunners’ youth ranks, featuring in their UEFA Youth League team this season.
At 18, he claims that a professional contract with Arsenal should be on the way, as he’s been managing to conquer his space.
“My goals have been clear since July, when we started pre-season. I won the U18 starting place, I have to maintain that. I want to have the opportunity to play with the U21s in the second half, after the goalkeepers go out on loan. I already played in the Youth Champions League against PSV and I was also in the game against Lens. I have to keep this and I hope to sign my contract as a professional with Arsenal, continue with the Colombian national team.”
