Mikel Arteta Encourages Ethan Nwaneri to Grasp His Chance at Arsenal as Youngest-Ever Premier League Player Signs First Professional Contract with Gunners, Over Chelsea and Man City Interest

Gunners manager Mikel Arteta has urged Ethan Nwaneri to make the most of his opportunity at Arsenal after signing his first professional contract last week. 

Nwaneri  made his Premier League debut on 18 September 2022 against Brentford at the age of 15 years and 181 days, becoming the youngest player to appear in the top flight of English football. 

Nwaneri – who is reportedly being mentored by club captain Martin Odegaard – also came off the bench to feature in Arsenal’s 6-0 thrashing of West Ham United in February. 

When speaking about Nwaneri, Arteta said the youngster was ‘very close’ to the first team and challenged him to secure a regular place in Arsenal’s matchday squad. 

‘I was really happy [for Nwaneri signing a professional contract],’ he said. ‘He had a great day, he had all his family and important people around him.

‘A really proud moment to see another academy graduate signing his pro contract. He is very close to the first team. The opportunity is there, now he needs to take it.’

Arsenal academy manager Per Mertesacker said: ‘We are extremely proud of Ethan and his journey, from pre-academy to Hale End, then a seamless transition to Sobha Realty Training Centre and then making his first-team debut.

‘Ethan’s journey now continues, and we will all be there alongside him to support his development. Ethan has a strong ability to master the ball and dominate possession, this is what we are all about at Arsenal Football Club.’

Nwaneri has been turning out for Arsenal’s youth teams this season, scoring 14 goals in as many appearances while getting the occasional opportunity with the first XI.