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Mikel Arteta makes interesting claim about Ethan Nwaneri after assist in Arsenal’s 2-1 win over Man United
Arsenal youngster Ethan Nwaneri seems to have taken a big step forward during the club’s pre-season tour of the United States.
Mikel Arteta has now handed Nwaneri back-to-back starts against Premier League opposition Bournemouth and Manchester United.
And in truth, Nwaneri has arguably been Arsenal’s strongest performer across the two games, proving that he is ready for first team football.
Ayden Heaven and Nwaneri have started both matches for Arteta, and whilst the defender has endured something of baptism of fire, Nwaneri looks comfortable at this level.
The England under-17 international played as Arsenal’s left-sided number eight against United, a position that is still vacant ever since Granit Xhaka’s departure.
And whilst Declan Rice has enjoyed his minutes in the advanced role, there’s now perhaps an argument that Nwaneri could be ready for starts, with his future England teammate perhaps returning to a role as a six.
That being said, after Nwaneri’s POTM showing for Arsenal, Arteta delivered an interesting response when asked about his plans for the youngster this season.
Mikel Arteta says Ethan Nwaneri will get another chance in Liverpool friendly
Speaking via after Arsenal’s second pre-season outing reached a conclusion, Arteta was specifically asked what the plan was for Nwaneri this season.
The Arsenal manager claimed that Nwaneri’s own actions will determine the answer to that question.
Arteta stated: “It’s always in the hands of the players. Show what you can do, show what you can accomplish, and things will happen naturally.”
In response, the Spaniard was then asked if that meant that a decision was yet to be made.
Arteta then delivered another fairly diplomatic response, but did concede that Nwaneri has earned further minutes in Arsenal’s final stateside friendly.
He said: “The decision is that tomorrow he’s gonna train with us again and if he continues to play like that, he’s gonna play again some minutes on Wednesday for sure.”
Of course, it’ll be interesting to see if Nwaneri’s form can have any influence on Arsenal’s transfer plans this summer.
Arsenal supporters are generally keen to see an offensive player arrive this summer, but those fans will be equally eager to see Nwaneri get sufficient chances.
That being said, Arsenal are preparing an offer for a Brazilian forward according to reports.