Rio Ferdinand has delivered a cutting critique of Mikel Arteta’s decisions this season.
He argues that the manager’s caution in playing 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri might be costing Arsenal valuable points. Moreover, Ferdinand insists that this oversight could widen the gap between Arsenal and league leaders Liverpool.
Currently, Arsenal enjoy a 15-match unbeaten run in the Premier League. However, they remain seven points adrift of Liverpool, which intensifies the pressure on Arteta. Consequently, every decision now carries extra weight as the title race heats up.
In their latest match, Arsenal secured three points with a 2-0 victory at Leicester. Notably, Mikel Merino netted two late goals that clinched the win. Furthermore, the game showcased Nwaneri’s potential as he caused constant problems for Leicester’s defense and provided the crucial opening assist.
The youngster, only 17 years old, has already impressed with his tenacity and skill. He has recorded seven goals in 24 appearances across all competitions this term. Therefore, his on-field impact is hard to ignore, especially as he demonstrated his flair by “cooking defenders and teams,” as Ferdinand put it.
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Ferdinand did not mince his words on his YouTube channel. He claimed that Arsenal might have been closer to winning the league if Arteta had integrated Nwaneri sooner—particularly when Martin Odegaard was sidelined with a two‑month ankle injury. Moreover, the pundit warned that hesitancy at a critical time might be a strategic misstep.
Arteta’s reluctance to give Nwaneri regular first-team minutes is now under the spotlight. Ferdinand argued, “Chuck him in and just see, what’s the worst that can happen?” He emphasized that the young talent could have steered the team away from dead ends, a sentiment that resonates with many Arsenal supporters.
Furthermore, high-profile pundits have also expressed their admiration for Nwaneri’s performance. Joe Cole even compared the winger’s display to the brilliance of Lionel Messi. In addition, Alan Shearer hailed him as a “potential superstar,” adding more fuel to the debate over Arteta’s selection choices.
Looking ahead, Nwaneri is likely to secure a regular spot in the starting XI. With Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli still out for several weeks, his inclusion becomes even more critical. Ultimately, Ferdinand remains adamant that Arteta’s delayed trust in Nwaneri could haunt Arsenal as they chase Liverpool for their first title triumph in 21 years.