Declan Rice has heaped praise on Arsenal’s teenage sensation Ethan Nwaneri following his stellar performance in the Gunners’ record-breaking 7-1 Champions League thrashing of PSV Eindhoven.
Mikel Arteta’s side, struggling for goals in recent weeks, found their rhythm in emphatic fashion, tearing apart their Dutch opponents to all but confirm their place in the quarter-finals. Nwaneri was a standout performer, netting Arsenal’s second goal before setting up Martin Odegaard for the fourth early in the second half.
At just 17, Nwaneri has already etched his name into the record books, becoming only the fourth player to score in a Champions League knockout stage before turning 18. With Bukayo Saka sidelined, the Hale End graduate has stepped up brilliantly, and Rice believes he will remain a key figure in the squad even when the England winger returns.
“Top, he’s 17 years old and playing on the biggest stage in football—it’s crazy,” Rice told TNT Sports after the game. “We see him every day in training, and he has no fear. He deserves to be playing. Even if Saka was fit, Ethan would still be getting minutes because he’s that good.”
Nwaneri’s rapid rise has impressed Arteta, who now challenges the youngster to maintain his consistency, especially with a crucial Premier League clash against Manchester United on Sunday.
“I don’t think he needs any pushing,” Arteta said. “Every time he gets the ball, his intention is clear. It’s about consistency now—doing it again three days later in another big stadium.”
Arsenal’s dominant performance against PSV was a statement of intent, but Arteta knows the real test lies ahead as they continue their Champions League and Premier League campaigns.