Making Our Own Path in Football: From Arsenal’s Academy to Success
Brothers Ben and Max Sheaf have taken different paths in their football careers after coming through Arsenal’s academy. Ben, the elder brother at 26, made two appearances for Arsenal’s first team in 2017, while Max, now 23, earned a top-flight move last summer after spending time in non-league.
Ben Sheaf, a midfielder, played twice for Arsenal as a substitute in a League Cup win over West Ham and a Europa League victory against Red Star Belgrade. However, his opportunities at Arsenal were limited, and he was sent out on loan to Stevenage and Doncaster. Eventually, he joined Coventry City on loan during the 2020/21 season and made the move permanent the following summer. Since then, Ben has become a key player for Coventry, accumulating 100 appearances and scoring nine goals. In the current season, he has already played 22 league matches, helping Coventry challenge for a playoff spot.
On the other hand, Max Sheaf’s journey took him to Hull City after playing for Arsenal’s U16s side. He made his Championship debut with Hull but struggled to establish himself in the first team, making only six appearances across three seasons. Max was loaned out to Cheltenham and Torquay before signing for non-league sides Gloucester City and Redditch United. However, last summer, Max secured a two-year deal with Scottish Premiership side Ross County. Although he has yet to register a goal contribution, Max has played in 10 league matches, starting five, and is gaining valuable experience in the top-flight.
The Sheaf brothers come from a family with an impressive sporting background. Their mother, Mandy, was a top-level volleyball and beach volleyball player, while their brother, Jake, is also involved in volleyball as a player and Sky Sports mentor. Their father, Stuart, played football at the county level. Ben acknowledged the influence of his sporty family on his success, stating that their discipline and focus have been instrumental in his development as a footballer.
The Sheaf brothers’ journeys demonstrate that success in football can be achieved through different paths. While Ben has found his place at Coventry City, Max has made his mark in the Scottish Premiership with Ross County. Their determination to carve out their own paths and their family’s support have undoubtedly played a crucial role in their respective successes. It will be exciting to see how their careers progress in the coming years as they continue to make their mark in the football world.