Ethan Nwaneri impressed in the Champions League on Wednesday night by scoring the winning goal for Arsenal in the away match against Girona. Manager Mikel Arteta spoke fondly of the 17-year-old Englishman, who followed in the footsteps of his compatriot Jude Bellingham.
Embed from Getty Images
Ethan Nwaneri made history on Wednesday night in the Champions League, delivering a standout performance that saw him score the winning goal in Arsenal’s 2-1 away victory against Girona.
The 17-year-old midfielder showcased his composure and technical ability under pressure, securing a crucial win for the Gunners as they continue their impressive European campaign. Manager Mikel Arteta was full of praise for the youngster, who is now drawing comparisons to some of England’s brightest talents, including Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham.
Nwaneri’s goal not only sealed the victory for Arsenal but also placed him in the spotlight as one of the most promising young players in world football. The teenage sensation became the second-youngest English player to score in the Champions League, narrowly missing out on the record held by Bellingham, who found the net for Borussia Dortmund at an even younger age. However, this achievement does not diminish Nwaneri’s remarkable rise, as he continues to develop into a key player for Arsenal’s future. His performance against Girona was a testament to his technical quality, decision-making, and confidence. From the first whistle, Nwaneri played with maturity beyond his years, linking up well with his teammates and showing an impressive ability to read the game. His goal, a well-placed finish that left the Girona goalkeeper with no chance, was the culmination of an excellent display in one of Arsenal’s biggest matches of the season.
After the game, Mikel Arteta heaped praise on the young midfielder, highlighting his intelligence and fearlessness on the pitch. He stated that this is exactly why they love him, as he takes the initiative and makes things happen, showing aggressiveness on the ball and remarkable confidence. According to the Arsenal manager, Nwaneri makes the right decisions, goes for them, and has the ability to score from any angle. His words reflect the belief that Arsenal has in the young star, who is gradually being integrated into the first team in a structured and supportive way, ensuring that his development remains on the right track.
Nwaneri’s journey to the Arsenal first team has been nothing short of spectacular. Born in March 2007, the young midfielder has been with the club since he was nine years old, steadily climbing through the academy ranks. His talent was evident from an early age, and he quickly became one of the most talked-about prospects in England. In September 2022, at just 15 years and 181 days old, he became the youngest player ever to appear in a Premier League match when he was substituted on against Brentford. That record-breaking debut was a sign of things to come, and he has continued to impress at every level since. Last year, Nwaneri signed his first professional contract with Arsenal, a significant milestone in his young career. However, due to FIFA regulations regarding underage players, Arsenal could only offer him a three-year deal at the time. As his 18th birthday approaches on March 21, there is already speculation about a long-term contract that will secure his future at the club. Arsenal’s management is eager to tie him down to a new deal, as interest from Europe’s top clubs continues to grow.
With the victory over Girona, Arsenal has officially secured their place in the Champions League round of 16, marking a major step forward in their European ambitions. The win ensures that the Gunners will compete in the knockout stages, where they will face one of Feyenoord, PSV, Juventus, or AC Milan. The draw on Friday will determine their next opponent, but confidence is high within the squad as they continue their pursuit of European glory.
For Nwaneri, this is just the beginning. His ability to perform on the biggest stage at such a young age suggests that he has a bright future ahead, both at Arsenal and with the England national team. As the football world takes notice of his talents, Arsenal fans will be hoping that their young star remains at the club for years to come, continuing to develop under Arteta’s guidance and contributing to the team’s success. With his composure, technical ability, and fearless approach to the game, Ethan Nwaneri is quickly becoming one of the most exciting young talents in football—a name to remember for years to come.
