According to the Nation, of the standout performers in Arsenal's remarkable 5-1 victory over reigning champions Manchester City was 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri. The teenager, playing at the Emirates, capped off an excellent performance with a sublime goal, coolly slotting a long-range effort from the left, reminiscent of the style of the injured skipper, Bukayo Saka.
Nwaneri, who shares Nigerian roots with Saka (having been born to a Nigerian father), showcased his talent with a volley that left City's defense stranded. His goal was the fifth and final strike of the game, sealing an important win for Arsenal as they continue their push for the Premier League title.
This performance was no accident. Nwaneri has been displaying exceptional form throughout the season. He had already made a significant impact during Arsenal's run to the Carabao Cup semifinals. In his first-ever start in the third round against Bolton Wanderers last September, Nwaneri scored twice, marking his debut for the first team in impressive fashion. He continued to shine in the fourth round, scoring a brilliant goal in Arsenal's 3-0 win over Preston, which was widely regarded as the goal of the game.
But Nwaneri's contributions haven’t been confined to cup competitions alone. He has featured in more than half of Arsenal's Premier League games this season, scoring in a 3-0 home win over Nottingham Forest. Additionally, he made his Champions League debut, a milestone he described as a dream come true.
Nwaneri's journey has been well-documented, especially when he became the youngest player in Arsenal's history to make a senior debut away to Brentford on September 18, 2022, at just 15 years and 181 days old. He also became the youngest-ever Premier League player at the time, breaking records and setting new milestones in his early career.
Despite all the success and attention he’s garnered, Nwaneri remains focused on his development. “I’m pleased with how it’s going, I’ve scored my first Premier League goal, I’ve made my first starts for the first team, scored my first professional goals too, but there is a lot more to come,” he said, reflecting on his progress this season.
Although he is only 17, Nwaneri has already shown a remarkable level of maturity, and he is not resting on his laurels. He explained, "My first game of the season was special because it was in the north London derby. We had a few injuries at the time, so I was ready to be involved if needed. The manager gave me some tactical advice and encouragement and then sent me on."
Nwaneri has a strong belief in his potential, emphasizing that this is just the beginning. “Nobody has really seen anything from me yet, just a small snippet of what’s to come,” he said. “I’ve got a much bigger picture in my mind that I want to work towards.”
He joined Arsenal's academy at the age of eight and has made significant strides in his development, playing in various attacking positions and honing his skills. Although he has featured as a winger and a defensive midfielder, Nwaneri identifies as an attacking midfielder, a role where he feels most comfortable and where he envisions his long-term future.
Nwaneri credits much of his development to the guidance of his coaches at Arsenal, including Dan Micciche, Adam Birchall, Jack Wilshere, and others. However, he also acknowledges the pivotal role his father, Obi, has played in his growth. “My dad is my main coach, my main critic and my main support,” he shared. “Over the years, he’s always taken me and my brother to do extra work in our local park in Islington, to help with finishing, working on our touch or whatever."
As Nwaneri continues to make waves at Arsenal, both fans and pundits are excited about what the future holds for the talented youngster. With his exceptional ability, strong work ethic, and determination, Nwaneri is poised to become a key figure in Arsenal’s future, as he continues to impress on the field while keeping his feet firmly on the ground.