Meet Ethan Nwaneri, Arsenal’s teenage rising star

News360 Nigeria highlights in this post, all what you should know about Arsenal’s emerging talent, Ethan Nwaneri.

In Arsenal’s dominant 5-1 win over Bolton Wanderers in the Carabao Cup, 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri emerged as one of the standout performers, scoring twice and solidifying his status as one of the club’s most promising talents.

Nwaneri opened the scoring early in the match, and later completed his brace, earning the adoration of the Emirates crowd, who chanted, “he’s one of our own.”

Reflecting on his impressive performance, Nwaneri shared his excitement, stating, “I’m buzzing. I’m so happy to have helped the team go through to the next round and I’m just ready for whatever’s next.”

Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta was also full of praise for Nwaneri, emphasizing his remarkable progress. “He’s improving daily. You can tell he’s playing without pressure, with confidence, and making decisions that show the boy is ready at this level.

Today, he had a really strong performance, and I’m happy to see that,” Arteta remarked.

Early life

Born on March 21, 2007, in Enfield, London, Ethan Chidiebere Nwaneri is of Igbo-Nigerian descent.

He attended St John’s Senior School and began his journey with Arsenal at just nine years old. By 14, he was playing for Arsenal’s under-18 team, showing immense potential as a midfielder.

Club career

Nwaneri made history on September 18, 2022, becoming the youngest player to feature in the Premier League at 15 years and 181 days in Arsenal’s 3-0 win over Brentford.

His continued development earned him a new deal with Arsenal in June 2023, with a professional contract lined up for his 17th birthday in March 2024.

His rapid rise in the 2023–24 season saw him make substitute appearances in league matches, and on September 25, 2024, he scored his first senior goals, netting twice against Bolton Wanderers in the EFL Cup.

International Career

Nwaneri’s talents have also been recognized at the international level.

He has represented England in several youth tournaments, including the 2023 UEFA European Under-17 Championship, where he scored the winner against Croatia.

He also played in the 2023 FIFA U-17 World Cup and was called up for the 2024 UEFA European Under-17 Championship, continuing his excellent form with goals against France and Spain.

First senior goals for Arsenal

On September 25, 2024, Nwaneri scored his first senior goals, netting a brace in Arsenal’s Carabao Cup win over Bolton, a performance that resonated with fans at the Emirates.

Style of play

Known for his versatility and creativity, Nwaneri excels as an attack-minded midfielder, capable of playing centrally or in wide positions. His dribbling skills, vision, and defensive contributions make him a valuable asset for Arsenal’s future.

With his remarkable talent and maturity, Ethan Nwaneri is a rising star to watch closely as he continues to make waves in the football world.