The 19-year-old signed for the North London club after being released through Huddersfield Town, where he failed to become part of his first team.
Last season, Akinola won a loan with Brighouse Town FC, which plays in the eighth tier of English football.
There, he inspired manager Vill Powell, a former spouse of Jamie Vardy on strike outside the league, with his nature and combative skills.
But the former Stockbridge Park Steels F.C.Forward admitted that signing Akinola for FA Cup winners is unlikely at the time.
“It’s a surprise, ” Powell, 40, SunSport.
”I have to admit that a transfer to Arsenal from Huddersfield was in fact not expected because of what I saw with his time with us.
“He joined us on loan when we had some injuries.He was a quiet boy, but a combative midfielder.
“He was box-to-box, won the ball well and had a positive effect while he was with us.
“Physically, his figure is neither imposing nor large, but what he does well is that he covers a lot of floor and recovers the ball quickly.
“I can see why a Premier League club would have chosen Tim, but he is wonderful at our football club.”
And Powell is tipping Akinola in Arsenal’s first team next season, while betting on more important players.
“When I see the deal, I see Tim get some kind of first-team football next season,” he said.
“They’re going to have a lot of games in Europe, some in no time.
“I can see where he would have a chance at Arsenal, with some of the attributes he showed us.Defensively, he’s perfect at the tackle.
“And given his age and length of the deal, he tells me he’ll have a chance to play at some point.
“I also think he’s the kind of player who will improve his game by being surrounded by great players.”
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