Arsenal may soon face an intriguing selection dilemma, as teenage sensation Ethan Nwaneri continues to dazzle, earning high praise and comparisons to legendary Lionel Messi.
Nwaneri, still just 17, has recently emerged as one of the brightest prospects under Mikel Arteta, posing a potential challenge for Bukayo Saka’s place in the starting lineup.
Nwaneri first made headlines in September 2022, becoming the youngest Premier League debutant at just 15. Over two years later, his development has accelerated significantly, earning him regular appearances and growing trust from Arteta, especially amid injuries to key players including Saka, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Jesus.
In Arsenal’s emphatic 7-1 victory against PSV in the Champions League round-of-16 first leg, Nwaneri was pivotal. The youngster confidently opened the scoring in the 21st minute with a powerful strike, assisted by fellow academy star Myles Lewis-Skelly. This performance marked him as Arsenal’s standout player on a memorable European night.
His influence extended into the second half when he skillfully evaded his marker to deliver a threatening cross. PSV goalkeeper Walter Benitez could only deflect the ball towards Martin Odegaard, who made no mistake, netting Arsenal’s fourth goal. Nwaneri’s impact throughout the match sparked further excitement around his burgeoning career.
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talkSPORT pundit Scott Minto believes Arteta now faces a welcome challenge regarding Nwaneri and Saka, highlighting the positive complexity of selecting between two exceptional talents. “Mikel Arteta has, not a worry, but very much a positive problem. What does he do when Saka comes back?” questioned Minto, emphasizing Nwaneri’s recent excellence.
Comparisons between Nwaneri and Messi emerged after Nwaneri’s dynamic displays. Host Adrian Durham asked Minto whether the teenager could operate regularly as a false nine, a role Messi famously excelled in under Pep Guardiola. Minto responded cautiously, noting, “It’s a lot to ask from a 17-year-old,” yet praised the remarkable similarities in playing style.
Reflecting further, Minto explained that Messi didn’t immediately play centrally under Frank Rijkaard at Barcelona; it took Guardiola’s bold vision to utilize his talents fully. “Messi, along with Diego Maradona, is one of the best players this planet has ever produced,” clarified Minto. He was careful not to directly equate Nwaneri with Messi but emphasized the striking resemblance in their playmaking qualities.
As Arsenal continues to navigate future transfers, journalist Steve Kay reported that the Gunners are strongly positioned to secure attacking talents Benjamin Sesko and Ollie Watkins this summer. Sesko reportedly favors a move to the Emirates, while Watkins aims to conclude his career at Arsenal. Meanwhile, insider Ben Jacobs stated clearly that Arteta’s position remains secure regardless of this season’s trophy outcome, highlighting Arsenal’s long-term commitment to their manager.
