This 19-Year-Old Arsenal Keeper Just Schooled the Premier League on Going Green

By Lewis Barnett 3 September, 2025 5 mins read 388 Views

Listen, I've covered enough young footballers to know most of them at 19 are worried about their Instagram followers and which car to buy next.

Not Alexei Rojas.

Play Article Audio

The Kid Who Actually Gives a Damn

While his Arsenal teammates are probably debating whether to get the new PlayStation or Xbox, Rojas has been busy lobbying the Premier League about sustainability education. Yeah, you read that right. A teenager is telling one of the world's biggest football leagues how to be more environmentally responsible.

And honestly? Good for him.

The 19-year-old goalkeeper isn't just making waves in training sessions at London Colney (where he used to play for the local Colts team as a kid, which is kind of perfect). He's also become Arsenal's unofficial environmental conscience, pushing the club to ditch single-use plastic bottles and actually educate players about not destroying the planet.

From Chelsea Fan to Arsenal's Future

Here's where it gets interesting. Rojas grew up idolizing Petr Cech and actually played for Chelsea's development squad before switching to Arsenal. His dad Fernando left Colombia at 21, met his Russian wife Yulia, and they settled near St Albans. Classic immigrant success story, except their son is now training with David Raya and new signing Kepa Arrizabalaga.

Born in England but eligible for three countries, Rojas always felt Colombian. Smart kid - he's been called up for Colombia's Under-20 World Cup squad in Chile starting September 30 against Saudi Arabia.

The Rarest Thing in Football: A 16-Year-Old Keeper Training with the First Team

Back in October 2021, something almost unheard of happened. Arsenal invited a 16-year-old goalkeeper to train with the first team. Not a striker or midfielder - a keeper. Anyone who knows football understands how rare this is because of the obvious physical disadvantages.

But Rojas kept impressing everyone. Since last season, he's been permanently training with Arteta's squad and even went on their pre-season Asia tour. There was talk about loaning him to League One or Two for experience, but Arteta said no. He wants the kid around.

More Than Just Gloves and Goals

What really gets me about Rojas is his off-pitch work. His mum works in renewable energy, which probably explains where this environmental passion comes from. But the kid has taken it way further than most adults ever do.

He's an ambassador for Common Goal (connecting football with social change) and Green Football Weekend (encouraging fans to make sustainable choices and try vegetarian options). He also works with Charity Boots, collecting worn boots to redistribute to kids worldwide.

The 6'1" keeper has been pushing Arsenal to be smarter about energy use and remove plastic bottles from training grounds. And he's not stopping there - he's actually contacted the Premier League directly about promoting environmental awareness to younger players.

What Happens Next?

Right now, Rojas is focused on being the best keeper at the Under-20 World Cup. When he gets back in October, he'll continue training with Arsenal's first team while probably annoying executives about their carbon footprint.

Arsenal might have found something special here. Not just a promising keeper who studies Marc-Andre ter Stegen and Jordan Pickford religiously, but a mature 19-year-old who understands his platform and actually uses it for something meaningful.

In a sport obsessed with money and individual glory, that's pretty refreshing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of gloves for goalkeepers provides the best grip?

Goalkeeper gloves that have a latex-coated palm provide the best grip for different playing conditions. The latex density and thickness can be varied to balance grip with durability. Gloves that have finger protection systems (including spines and stiffening materials) can help prevent hyperextension of the fingers. Good gloves must also fit and be comfortable to allow the goalkeepers to perform their best.

What are the basic pieces of equipment required for playing football?

The basic football equipment includes the following: a jersey or t-shirt, shorts (or shin guards), stockings, football boots or cleats. Goalkeepers usually require additional equipment such as specialized glove and sometimes padded clothes to protect them when diving and jumping. In order to be safe and adhere to the rules of the game, players must wear the appropriate clothing.

Are there any specific regulations regarding equipment during competitive football matches?

Yes, football competitions often have equipment regulations that are enforced to ensure player safety. Standard equipment includes jerseys that have sleeves, shorts covering shinguards and shoes. Adornments and equipment that pose a danger to the player or opponents are strictly prohibited. Players must adhere to the rules and regulations that vary depending on leagues, age groups, etc. to avoid penalties.

Why is it mandatory for footballers to wear shin guards?

Shin guards for footballers are mandatory as they offer vital protection to lower legs that are susceptible to injury in collisions and tackles. The shin guards protect the lower legs from injuries such as fractures and severe bruises. Football's governing bodies require players to wear shinguards as a way to promote safety.

Is it mandatory to wear football specific clothing, or am I allowed to wear any athletic wear?

Although you can technically play football with any athletic clothing, it is recommended that you wear football-specific apparel as they are designed to improve performance and comfort. Jerseys, shorts, and other clothing are often made of lightweight and breathable materials to allow optimal airflow. This reduces overheating, sweat, and heat. The fit is also tailored to enable a full range of motion, which can improve your overall agility and response times during play.

Statistics

Data shows that thermo-bonded footballs, known for their consistent performance, are preferred by 65% of professional football clubs for matches.
Approximately 40% of amateur football players wear boots that are not properly fitted, increasing the risk of foot injuries.
Around 25% of youth football players have reported using equipment that is either outdated or not suited to their position on the field.
Over 90% of professional football players wear boots with synthetic uppers for better performance and durability.
Compression garments are used by about 50% of professional football players during training sessions for muscle support and injury prevention.

External Links

How To

How to Choose the Best Protective Gear for Football

The protective gear should be a key part of the equipment bag for any footballer. Consider the comfort, safety and compatibility of each piece with your player's position. For the protection of teeth and to reduce concussions, mouthguards should be used. Undergarments with padding can offer extra protection for goalkeepers and players who are at a higher risk of injury. Sleeves can help with compression and provide minor abrasion resistance. All equipment should be in compliance with league safety regulations and properly certified.