Arsenal signs Somali-British midfielder Maalik Hashi to first professional contract
Hashi becomes the first player of Somali descent to progress through Arsenal’s academy system and sign professional terms with the north London giants — a breakthrough that resonates far beyond the pitch.
Mogadishu (HOL) - Arsenal have confirmed that Somali-British midfielder Maalik Hashi has signed his first professional contract, marking a historic milestone for the 17-year-old and a proud moment for the Somali community.
Hashi becomes the first player of Somali descent to progress through Arsenal’s academy system and sign professional terms with the north London giants — a breakthrough that resonates far beyond the pitch.
Born in England to Somali parents, the midfielder has steadily climbed the ranks at Hale End, Arsenal’s famed youth academy known for producing top-tier talent. This season has proved to be his breakthrough.
Primarily deployed in central midfield, Hashi operates in what coaches describe as a “destroyer” role — breaking up opposition attacks, shielding the back line, dictating tempo and launching forward transitions.
Speaking at the club’s training ground, the teenager described the contract as a shared family achievement.
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“I’m really excited, it’s a proud moment for me and my family,” Hashi said. “It’s not only me on this journey. It’s my family with me as well, helping me every day to get better. I probably started in the garden with my dad, just doing kick-ups, and then found my way to Arsenal.
“From there, I had the two years up to under-16s, then got my scholarship and now we’re here.”
Under English football regulations, academy players are eligible to sign professional contracts at 17, typically for up to three years. While Arsenal do not publicly disclose contract details, such agreements generally run until the end of the current season plus two additional campaigns — potentially tying Hashi to the club until 2028.
On the pitch, his development has been clear. Hashi has made 19 appearances across Arsenal’s academy sides this season, featuring predominantly for the Under-18s.
He has also stepped up to represent the Under-19s in the UEFA Youth League and made an appearance for the Under-21s in Premier League 2 — a significant sign of trust in his ability.
Having registered just seven combined appearances for the U18s and U21s prior to this campaign, this season marks a defining step forward. With his first professional contract secured, Maalik Hashi’s journey is only just beginning — and many will now be watching what comes next.
About the Author
Osman Hassan is a Senior Editor at the Somali Report based in Nairobi with over 15 years of experience in journalism. He has worked with local and international media outlets in Somalia and is an award-winning journalist. His reporting focuses on politics, security, and regional affairs in the Horn of Africa.