Mikel Arteta has dropped a major hint that Arsenal’s rising star Ethan Nwaneri could soon take on a new role as a striker, praising the 17-year-old for his exceptional goal-scoring instinct.
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Nwaneri, a Hale End academy product, has already proven his versatility this season, operating as a right winger, attacking midfielder, and central midfielder.
His impact has been significant, with a Premier League goal in Arsenal’s 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest and three Carabao Cup goals, including a brace against Bolton and another against Preston.
Speaking ahead of Arsenal’s Carabao Cup quarter-final clash with Crystal Palace, Arteta revealed his belief in Nwaneri’s potential to thrive as a No.9.
“Ethan can play as a right attacking midfielder, a left attacking midfielder,” said Arteta. “He can play as a right winger, and there’s another position I think he can develop into – No.9. He has a tremendous ability to put the ball in the back of the net.”
This comes at a critical time for Arsenal, who have struggled to find the net from open play in their last three Premier League games.
The club has faced growing calls to sign a world-class striker in January to reignite their title challenge.
However, former Liverpool and Manchester City midfielder Didi Hamann believes Arsenal’s title hopes are already over.
After back-to-back Premier League draws with Fulham and Everton, Arsenal sit third in the table, six points behind leaders Liverpool, who also have a game in hand.
As Arsenal prepares to face Crystal Palace twice this week – first in the Carabao Cup and then in the Premier League on Saturday – Arteta’s reshaping of Nwaneri could prove pivotal in addressing their attacking concerns.
