Ethan Nwaneri isn’t quitting Arsenal fans, or football and Arsenal fans will not have to take a deep breath. Yes, you read that right. But the teenage sensation managed to lure the attention of Manchester City 18 months ago and Arsenal kept him. The result? Nwaneri is now dazzling fans at the Emirates, and confirming some gems really are worth guarding with your life … or, at least, a fruitful long-term plan.
Premier League players who have been playing for years find themselves dropping off to sleep by comparison to Nwaneri, who is just 17. His latest Player of the Match show against Leicester City was not just impressive—it was a shot over the bows to the league: this lad is the real deal.
Nwaneri vs. Man City: The Transfer That Never Was
The Manchester City attempt to poach Nwaneri, although not so secret, is something we should discuss. Guardiola eyed Arsenal prodigy, in his eternal pursuit of collecting midfielders like Pokémon. The discussions reportedly took place behind the scenes as, from loyalty rather than the bright lights of the Etihad, Nwaneri opted for. Bold move for a 17-year-old, right?
Despite the fact that Bukayo Saka is firmly the right winger, Nwaneri may not have a long wait for game time. Arsenal’s willingness to cultivate bright young souls will give him room, however, losing him to City would hurt more than an exit in the Champions League.
Why Arsenal’s Patience with him Will Pay Off
Mikel Arteta has been patient… literally to the tune of agony, at times. Patience is a virtue and one you have in abundance when you have a player like Nwaneri who can read a game as easily as he did when he played in front of a crowd of thousands at the days of Highbury. And the Gunners know they have a generational talent on their hands, and the priority now is not putting pressure on the youngster in the way that is needed for him to have the right development.
To be fair, Arsenal can still really be where Liverpool can be right now with the title race (though rejecting a divine intervention), and having that wildcard in Nwaneri in the wings might just be Arsenal’s ace.
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