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Cole Bassett had the chance of a lifetime this past summer when he suited up against his favorite team. Now, the Colorado Rapids midfielder is set to join it.
The 18-year-old Bassett headed to North London on Monday to spend a week learning and training with Arsenal’s U-23 team.
“As most people already know, this is my favorite club,” Bassett said. “I don’t know which team it will be because it’s an international break for them. Hopefully, there will be a couple of guys missing with the first team and I can get with them. But I’m just excited to get over there and show up basically.”
The Littleton native played in 20 games for the Rapids in 2019, his first full season as a professional, scoring two goals and getting an MLS Homegrown All-Star game nod.
“When Arsenal came over here and played us, you could see there are little things that they do that I just don’t quite have yet,” Bassett said. “I’m eager to learn from them. Picking up things from every player will help improve my game. It’s going to be a great learning experience.”
Arsenal, like the Rapids, is owned by Kroenke Sports & Entertainment.
There has been a movement within Colorado’s front office to establish a stronger link between the two clubs. Similar to how City Football Group has established a global scouting network between their seven clubs, those with the Rapids are hopeful to share resources. Bassett joining the young Gunners for the week is one of the most public coordinations between the Arsenal and the Rapids.
Bassett has already been linked to international transfer offers, all of which the Rapids have declined. His trip across the pond should give him further experience and exposure ahead of a season where coach Robin Fraser will try to nail down his role.
Last winter Bassett and Sam Vines trained with Freiburg of the German Bundesliga. Freiburg eventually offered a transfer on each, which spurred other offers for the young local duo.
“From the first day we got there, (the Freiburg coach) treated us like we were part of his team,” Bassett said. “It was a good experience and I was glad I got to go and it got me a bit of exposure. I kind of wish I could go back as well, but you need to get yourself out there to different teams.”
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