Zayn Ali Salman was just four years old when he caught the attention of one of London’s biggest football clubs.
He is the youngest-ever recruit to the Arsenal pre-academy after his skills had him running rings round players twice his age.
The boy’s father, who saw his son coveted by a number of other clubs, is not surprised in his evolution.
“I remember the day he was born,” he told the BBC.
“The nurse put him on his front and he lifted his head up to look around.
“Even she was surprised.
“He’s always been strong from a young age.”
Despite the child’s extraordinary achievements, there have been many voices who have criticised the professionalisation of football at such a young age.
Zayn’s father thinks he is different to his peers though.
“He has had incredible balance since he was very small,” he said.
“That’s carried on.
“Arsenal aren’t bothered about his age, they just think he has a lot of potential.”
Zayn’s coach, Austin Schofield, also believes he is advanced for his age.
“We put him with kids of his age, but he was better than all of them,” he said.
“He was quicker and he could score and pass much better than the others.
“I spoke with his Dad to suggest playing up, and he said ‘why not?'”
His talent didn’t escape the eyes of Arsenal’s talent spotter, Stephen Deans.
“He was doing things you shouldn’t be doing at that age,” he said.
“When I saw him, I called a friend who confirmed he was four.
“I couldn’t believe that he is still in nursery.
“Then I spoke to his parents and brought him to a few sessions.
“He’s no fluke.”
Zayn seems to be calm amongst the adulation and is said to like wearing the shirt of his favourite club.
