Arsenal official website is pleased to announce the appointment of Max Porter as our new U21 head coach.

Max joined us in July 2017 as U9 coach. Since then, he has served as head coach of multiple age groups, including U13, U17 and U19, and is also our chief coach in the youth development stage.

With Mehmet Ali joining the Brentford first-team coaching team this summer, Max will take over as U21 head coach before the 2025/26 season. He will be supported by Ken Gillard, the chief coach of career development.

During his previous tenure as U21 assistant coach, Max has helped many young players to prepare for their future high-level football careers, while also maintaining a steady competitive advantage in the Premier League Level 2.

Our youth training manager Pel Mertesack said: "Max has the qualities he needs to be a successful leader and coach. The environment he creates for his staff and young players is always full of high challenges and ultimate care. Max pushes the highest standards and is an outstanding colleague and coach. We all look forward to supporting Max in continuing to grow in this role and thanks for his hard work and commitment to date." All members of Arsenal wish Max all the best in the new U21 head coaching position.