Mikel Arteta has highlighted that Arsenal possesses a ‘significant’ young talent with ‘remarkable quality’ who may feature in the North London Derby.
According to Mikel Arteta, Arsenal has a remarkable young player with immense quality who could participate in the upcoming North London Derby.
Mikel Arteta on the possibility of Ethan Nwaneri playing for Arsenal against Tottenham
Arsenal is aiming to achieve their third victory in four Premier League matches during their crucial visit to Tottenham Hotspur this Sunday.
The Gunners remain unbeaten in the league, but their recent draw with Brighton has hindered their momentum against Manchester City and Liverpool.
Additionally, Arsenal is facing several injury and suspension challenges, with two to three key midfielders unavailable.
Martin Odegaard is a major doubt for the match against Spurs due to an injury sustained while on international duty.
Furthermore, Mikel Merino has yet to make an appearance this season due to injury, and Declan Rice is serving a suspension.
This predicament has sparked discussions about the potential inclusion of Hale End talent Ethan Nwaneri in the starting lineup against Tottenham.
Mikel Arteta has now addressed the possibility of fielding the 17-year-old in the North London derby.
Arteta, in a conversation with the Evening Standard, expressed that Arsenal is prepared to utilize young talents like Nwaneri if the situation demands it.
However, the Gunners’ manager refrained from confirming Nwaneri’s participation in the upcoming match against Spurs.
Arteta emphasized the need for adaptation throughout the season, stating, “We will encounter situations like this.”
He noted that the challenges arose early, beginning with the second match, and acknowledged the unexpected nature of the bench against Brighton.
“We must confront this reality and seize the opportunity presented by the young players, who have instilled hope and confidence in us. If necessary, we will rely on them.”
Arteta also discussed Nwaneri’s progress, highlighting significant growth over recent months.
“There has been remarkable development,” he remarked, attributing much of the success to the academy staff.
He praised the coaches, including Jack Wilshere and Mehmet Ali, for their efforts in preparing Nwaneri to excel in the current environment and meet the challenges ahead.
“His physical and personal maturity has greatly improved, as has his understanding of the game. We need to allow him the freedom to express his considerable talent.”
As for Nwaneri’s playing history with Arsenal, he made headlines in September 2022 by debuting at just 15 years and 181 days old, becoming the youngest player in the Premier League and in Arsenal’s history during a 3-0 victory over Brentford.
Since then, he has made one additional competitive appearance, contributing 13 minutes in a 6-0 win against West Ham in February 2024.
Additionally, he has been included in the matchday squad eight more times across the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League.
