Reiss Nelson scores on Hoffenheim debut as Arsenal teenager makes his mark on the Bundesliga
The 18-year-old scored just 15 minutes after coming off the bench, but couldn't prevent his side from falling to a 2-1 defeat
ARSENAL loanee Reiss Nelson made a name for himself in the Bundesliga — just a quarter of an hour into his Hoffenheim debut.
The 18-year-old, currently on a season-long loan at the German outfit, got his side back on level terms in their league clash with Fortuna Dusseldorf.
The England Under-19 forward collected the ball on the edge of the area, sweeping past his opponent with ease before firing low into the bottom corner with his first shot to make it 1-1.
But disaster was to strike for Nelson and Co, as Watford loanee Dodi Lukebakio scored the winner from the penalty spot just two minutes later.
Alfredo Morales had put the hosts in front in the first half.
Nelson’s successful debut will come as no surprise to Gunners boss Unai Emery — who has high hopes for the youngster — tying him down to a new long-term deal prior to heading to Germany.
Speaking ahead of his loan move, he said: “It’s for that reason we were speaking at the club with the coaches about this possibility and also, with him.
“We decided together: club, coaches and the player.
“It’s a good chance for him to get minutes in and play, and then come back with us because he signed a new contract with us.”
Hoffenheim play Shakhtar Dontesk in the Champions League on Wednesday, before hosting Borussia Dortmund three days later.
