When Juventus won a friendly against Arsenal at the Emirates in preparation for Serie A’s return during the World Cup, the boy who made his first steps in the game at Clissold Park Rangers and on the football pitches of Market Road came full circle. Still only 19, it must feel like only yesterday Iling-Junior was playing on the Park View estate in north London. “Ballers,” Iling says, incredulous and proud of how far he has come in so short a time. Soon afterwards, his compatriot and fellow World Cup winner Angel Di Maria emerges.
Practising in the same penalty area as Iling-Junior is Leandro Paredes.
“Cosa ha combinato?” a kid sat behind The Athletic shouts in wonder after watching him hit a volleyed rabona into a mini-goal with impressive focus and assurance.
