It’s been quite the breakthrough season for Ethan Nwaneri, but not everything has been rosy for the teenager.
Mikel Arteta handed Nwaneri his Premier League debut at only 15 years old, and now, at 18, the teen is a highly regarded first-team figure.
The 2024/25 season has been a disaster on the injury front for Arsenal, but without key absences, players such as Nwaneri and fellow Hale End graduate Myles Lewis-Skelly may not have been unearthed.
With a Champions League debut, Premier League goals, and over 30 appearances for Arsenal this season, it’s been a dream campaign for the starlet, but not without sacrifice.
Ethan Nwaneri reveals Arsenal struggle despite early success
After six games without a goal, Nwaneri scored against Ipswich Town to help Arsenal on their way to a 4-0 win.
Post-match, the teenager caught up with the media, where he revealed that despite the highs he’s experienced this season, he’s found it ‘tough’ to do one thing for Arteta.
“It’s been tough adapting to [right wing]. If the manager asks, you have to do it to the highest level,” Nwaneri told journalist Jordan Davies.
“It’s been hard, it’s been up and down, but I’ve enjoyed it. I’ve played as a ten my whole life. But, I can play striker as well.”
The versatile forward noted his challenges when adapting to the right-wing role, where he was utilised as cover for Bukayo Saka, but from the outside, very few would notice any sign of struggle.
Nwaneri has been hitting similar numbers to Lamine Yamal this season, despite not playing his favoured position, which says all that needs to be known about his talent.
Double-figure debut season for Nwaneri
The good times will keep coming for the academy graduate, as Nwaneri is close to signing a new contract at Arsenal.
What appears to be a dream scenario from the outside has actually been a tale of adaptation for Nwaneri, with his ability making the change look seamless.
In his debut season, the teen has surpassed the ten goal contribution mark, scoring nine times and recording two assists in all competitions.
With four Premier League goals and two in the Champions League, Nwaneri has made it clear that no level is too high for him, with next campaign projected to be one to savour for the youngster.
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