Image source: bbc.com
Ethan Nwaneri faces a season of frustration at Arsenal despite his impressive breakthrough campaign last term, with the 18-year-old forward starting just three games across all competitions as summer signings worth £250 million have limited his opportunities in Mikel Arteta’s title-chasing squad.
Nwaneri Struggles for Arsenal Minutes After Breakthrough Season Success
The England Under-21 international had a breakout season last term when he deputised impressively for injured Bukayo Saka, playing mostly on the right wing and scoring nine goals in 37 appearances across all competitions. Nwaneri also became the second-youngest goalscorer in Champions League history when he netted against Girona last January at 17 years and 314 days old, with only Jude Bellingham achieving the feat at a younger age.
This season his involvement has been severely limited, making 11 appearances in all competitions but starting just three times across matches in the Carabao Cup and Champions League. He has played just 446 minutes and scored one goal, with Arsenal’s summer spending spree bringing in eight players including Martin Zubimendi, Viktor Gyokeres, Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke as win now signings creating increased competition for places.
The strategy has proven successful for Arsenal, who sit five points clear at the top of the Premier League with a perfect Champions League record. Arteta’s side have won 23, drawn four and lost just two of their 29 matches, and victory over Liverpool on Thursday would extend their lead over Manchester City to eight points.
Fellow academy graduate Myles Lewis-Skelly faces similar challenges after his breakthrough season, starting just one Premier League game this term despite making 42 appearances last season including both Champions League quarter-final games against Real Madrid. The full-back earned an England debut under Thomas Tuchel, scoring against Albania in a 2-0 win, but has been displaced by the fitness and form of Riccardo Calafiori and the loan signing of Piero Hincapie.
Both players signed new five-year contracts in the summer committing their futures to Arsenal, with sources telling BBC Sport that Borussia Dortmund showed interest in Nwaneri before he penned his deal running until 2030. Despite speculation about a January loan move, neither the club nor player are considering that option, believing Nwaneri will benefit more from training alongside title challengers than seeking minutes elsewhere.
