The future of Ethan Nwaneri has been up for debate in recent weeks as his contract at Arsenal enters the final 12 months.
After a breakout season for the Gunners, the Arsenal academy star has been talked about plenty as one of the great prospects for the future.
As it stands, though, Arsenal may only have Ethan Nwaneri for another year due to his current contract situation.
Andrea Berta has been in contract talks with Nwaneri to try and solve the situation, as one of many stars at the club who need an extension to their deal.
With the 18-year-old facing an uncertain future, other teams have started to show interest in a potential swoop.
Rivals Chelsea have shown transfer interest in Nwaneri, with the Blues looking to capitalise on any potential doubt.
Despite that, though, the impact of Mikel Arteta could change things for the Gunners and a stay for their academy gem.
How Ethan Nwaneri feels about Mikel Arteta amid Arsenal contract talks
The future of Ethan Nwaneri has been up for discussion, but Arsenal appear to be stepping up contract talks for the youngster.
It’s believed that the main sticking point has been the pathway ahead for the 18-year-old and where he could fit into the team to get meaningful minutes.
Much of that will be down to Mikel Arteta and where he can fit the England youth international into the team.
Despite talks of a move to Chelsea, transfer expert Steve Kay claims that talks are “advanced” over a new deal at Arsenal, and Nwaneri is “happy” at the club.
He said in a YouTube video: “As far as I know, things are very advanced [with his new contract].
“As far as I know, he’s happy. Things are being blown out of proportion. Arteta loves Nwaneri, and from what I hear, Nwaneri trusts Arteta, and why shouldn’t he, given the gametime he got last season?”
It certainly provides a positive update on the star, who could well be the future of Arsenal for years to come.
The main question now comes from where his best position may be and how that fits in with his own development.
Ethan Nwaneri’s 2024/25 season statistics and where he could play now for Arsenal
Ethan Nwaneri had a breakout campaign in 2024/25, a few years on from his initial surprise debut at the age of 15.
With over 1,300 minutes under his belt in an impressive season, the youngster fell just short of reaching double figures for goals, but proved he was capable of making the step up.
| Appearances | Minutes | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| 37 | 1378 | 9 | 2 |
While it’s clear that plenty of faith was placed in him, some of that came from the injury to Bukayo Saka.
If Saka is able to keep fit, then the question comes about where Nwaneri would fit into the team next season.
That is the main challenge for Arteta to find a solution to, allowing him to develop with meaningful minutes, while also winning games.
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