Arsenal starlet, who idolises Messi and Ronaldo, could fulfil dream against Palace

The player's father claimed his son will be in the matchday squad against Palace on social media, adding that he is 'so proud and excited with the first call up'.

The former Ipswich attacker, who signed for the north Londoners in 2019, has contributed an impressive six goals and two assists in 11 appearances for the Under-18s, as well as three goals and one assist in Premier League 2.

And, ahead of being in Mikel Areta's squad that will travel to Selhurst Park, Flores could accomplish a goal he set for himself back in 2020.

Flores said in an interview with Goal: "I would like to make my Premier League debut before I turn 19 - that's my goal.

"And I'd like to get my proper international debut for Mexico and hopefully be involved in the Qatar World Cup."

Born in Canada, the 18-year-old can play as No.10 or out wide, and is clearly rated highly by youth coaches - and Arteta - at the Emirates Stadium.

The Spanish boss has a good reputation for trusting young players in the first team, with the likes of Bukayo Saka, Emile Smith Rowe, Charlie Patino, Gabriel Martinelli and Eddie Nketiah all getting opportunities over the last few years.

And Flores looks like he could be next on that list and, if Arsenal manage to qualify for the Champions League this campaign, he could be set to face his heroes in Europe next season.

"I idolise players like [Lionel] Messi, [Cristiano] Ronaldo and Neymar, who have all done the same thing," he added.

"Looking up to players like them, you want to match what they did because like any player, my ultimate dream is to win things like the Champions League and the Ballon d'Or."

Arsenal are struggling for numbers in forward areas, with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang no longer at the club and the likes of Martinelli and Saka potentially unavailable for their trip to south London, Flores could get his chance to impress.

And, as well as achieving goals, Flores could soon be the next academy graduate scoring them for the Gunners this season.