Arsenal - Ethan Nwaneri
Image credit: Getty Images
Former Arsenal star Theo Walcott has urged Ethan Nwaneri to maintain high standards and professionalism after observing signs of a dip in the teenager’s work ethic towards the end of the 2024/25 season.
Nwaneri, 18, has emerged as one of Arsenal’s most exciting prospects and recently made his England U21 debut in their 3-1 win over Czechia. However, Walcott, speaking during Channel 4’s coverage of the U21 Euros, suggested the young midfielder showed visible frustration late in the season and could do more to demonstrate his commitment on and off the pitch.
“I got a sense he was frustrated towards the back end of the season from watching him, even in warm-ups,” Walcott said. “I know I go on about habits, but it’s really important to do the right things when you’re visible.”
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The Arsenal academy graduate made several appearances from the bench during the Gunners’ title push but struggled to break into the starting XI, especially with captain Martin Ødegaard holding his place despite a dip in form. Walcott believes that was a missed opportunity for Nwaneri to push harder for more minutes.
Theo Walcott - Arsenal
Former Arsenal forward Theo Walcott (Image credit: Getty Images)
“You’ll have people who say he should be playing, and there was a point where I felt he could or should have played more,” Walcott added. “When Ødegaard had a dip, that was a chance for Ethan Nwaneri to apply pressure. But I did notice a drop in his work ethic. Even after games, when players do their running – if he only played five minutes, he still needs to do the runs. I look out for those things.”
Walcott stressed the importance of professionalism in all aspects, especially for a young player trying to establish himself in a competitive squad alongside stars like Bukayo Saka and Ødegaard.
“This is a big summer and season for him. He’s going to want to play more, but he’s competing with top players,” said Walcott.
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The former England international also pointed out Nwaneri’s admiration for Raheem Sterling, noting the positive influence the Chelsea forward could have on his development.
Ethan Nwaneri - Mikel Arteta
Ethan Nwaneri (Image credit: Getty Images)
“Raheem is really important for him,” Walcott said. “I could tell Ethan Nwaneri looked up to him – feeding off his behaviours. Raheem’s still doing all the right things, and Ethan can learn from that.”
Looking ahead, Walcott remains optimistic about Nwaneri’s future, even suggesting the teenager could break into the senior England squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup, depending on his form and development over the next year.
“This U21 tournament is massive for him. It shows where he’s at in terms of Arsenal and his career trajectory. It could go either way – and he needs to choose the right path. I’m confident he will.”
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