Mikel Arteta says he wants Ethan Nwaneri to remain at Arsenal but believes the teenager must be guaranteed sufficient first-team football for that to happen.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference ahead of Sunday’s Community Shield against Manchester City, Arteta praised Nwaneri’s development during his loan spell at Marseille and said the experience had demonstrated how quickly a young player can progress.
“I don’t know on the plans but certainly it opens your eyes in terms of how much a young player can evolve in such a short period,” Arteta said.
The 19-year-old spent the second half of last season on loan at Marseille, where he gained regular senior experience after struggling to establish a consistent role at Arsenal.
Arteta remains a strong admirer of Nwaneri’s ability and mentality, but stressed that his long-term development must be the priority when deciding whether he stays in north London.
Arteta wants Nwaneri to stay if Arsenal can guarantee minutes
“I want him to be at the club, but something is in the medium, long-term what is the best for the player as well,” Arteta said.
“And Ethan needs to play football. And if he stays here it’s because we can guarantee him that he can have those minutes, otherwise it’s just something that is not good for anybody I think.”
Nwaneri has already made significant progress since becoming Arsenal’s youngest-ever Premier League player in 2022. His loan spell at Marseille provided further exposure to first-team football and is now an important factor in determining his next step.
Arsenal have strengthened their midfield this summer with the £75m arrival of Bruno Guimaraes, increasing competition for places alongside Martin Odegaard, Declan Rice, Martin Zubimendi and Mikel Merino.
Recent reports have suggested that Nwaneri has attracted interest from other clubs, but Arteta’s comments indicate Arsenal’s preference is to keep him if they can provide a meaningful role.
The Community Shield against City on Sunday will be Arsenal’s first competitive fixture of the new season, with Arteta preparing to balance immediate results with the continued development of his young players.