Gedion Zelalem makes U.S. debut in under-20 friendly

Arsenal midfielder Gedion Zelalem made his debut for the U.S. national team program on Tuesday, entering in the 59th minute of the Under-20 team’s 2-1 win in a friendly at Australia.

The 18-year-old was born in Germany to Ethiopian parents and lived in Maryland for six years before going to Arsenal’s youth academy when he was 16. He has made two appearances for the Gunners, one each in the FA Cup and Champions League.

FIFA cleared Zelalem to play for the U.S. last week.