Arteta praises Ethan Nwaneri after strong preseason displays

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed his satisfaction with Ethan Nwaneri's recent performances during the club's preseason preparations. The manager noted that the 19-year-old has shown significant growth following a challenging loan period at Olympique de Marseille.

Arteta observed that the academy graduate appears much more mature than before his time in France. He suggested that the experience of being abroad and facing difficult circumstances helped the player develop. The manager stated that Nwaneri looks different and credited the six-month period for his improved outlook.

Despite previous interest from various European clubs and rumors regarding a potential permanent transfer, Arteta confirmed his intention to keep the teenager in the squad. The manager highlighted that Nwaneri has been performing well during the current preseason period.

Nwaneri holds the record as the youngest player to appear in the Premier League, having debuted at 15 years and 181 days in September 2022. Following a long-term contract extension in 2025, his development had slowed, leading to his loan move to Marseille for the latter half of the 2025/26 season.

During the 2024/25 campaign, the Hale End graduate recorded nine goals in 37 appearances across all competitions. Arteta's comments suggest the player is now positioned to reintegrate into the first-team plans in North London.