Ethan Nwaneri has been making waves at Arsenal, capturing the attention of fans and pundits alike. At just 17 years old, the attacking midfielder has shown glimpses of brilliance that suggest he could become a key figure in Mikel Arteta’s squad. But is he truly Arsenal’s next star?
Both the stats and the maturity with which he is playing seem to show that he is the next big thing in Arsenal. He does remind us of Bukayo Saka, and perhaps the two could form one of the newest, most lethal partnerships in the Premier League.
A Historic Beginning
Nwaneri’s story began in Arsenal’s academy, which he joined at the age of eight in 2015. Born in North London to Nigerian and English parents, he quickly rose through the ranks, showcasing exceptional talent. His Premier League debut came in September 2022 against Brentford when he was just 15 years and 181 days old, making him the youngest player in Premier League history. This moment not only highlighted his talent but also Arteta’s trust in his ability to handle pressure at such a young age.
This Season’s Numbers
The 2024/25 season has been a breakout campaign for Nwaneri. In 26 appearances across all competitions, he has scored seven goals. The last one came in Arsenal’s 7-1 thrashing of PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League, where Ethan scored a stunner of a goal.
- Premier League: 3 goals in 17 matches, including a memorable strike against Nottingham Forest.
- Carabao Cup: 3 goals in just 4 games, with a brace against Bolton Wanderers and another against Preston North End.
- Champions League: 2 goals, one of them a decisive winner against Girona.
These numbers are impressive for a teenager still finding his feet at the senior level. His ability to score important goals underlines his knack for stepping up when it matters most.
Playstyle and Tactical Fit
Nwaneri is an attacking midfielder who thrives in advanced positions. He combines excellent ball control with a keen eye for goals and a range of passing that allows him to unlock defenses. His versatility has been evident this season; he has played as a No. 8 in midfield and occasionally drifted wide to exploit space.
One of the most exciting aspects of Nwaneri’s game is his ability to link up with teammates like Bukayo Saka. Both players are technically gifted and possess the intelligence to read each other’s movements. If Arteta continues to deploy them together, they could form a dynamic dual partnership that adds creativity and unpredictability to Arsenal’s attack.
Comparisons and Challenges
It’s tempting to compare Nwaneri to other young talents like Phil Foden or Jude Bellingham, who have already established themselves as stars at top clubs. While Nwaneri possesses similar technical skills and composure, he still has much to prove before reaching their level.
Challenges remain. The physicality of the Premier League can be daunting for young players, and managing expectations will be crucial. Arteta must strike a balance between giving him opportunities and protecting him from burnout or undue pressure.
Nwaneri has all the tools to succeed: talent, work ethic, and the guidance of an experienced manager in Arteta. With Arsenal competing on multiple fronts this season, there will be plenty of chances for him to shine. Whether it’s scoring crucial goals or linking up with seasoned players like Saka and Odegaard, Nwaneri is already proving he belongs at this level.
