Arsenal are set to kick off their Champions League campaign with a tricky away tie at San Mamés against Athletic Bilbao, and the big question looming is whether Mikel Arteta should hand Ethan Nwaneri a start. The 17-year-old prodigy has been steadily earning Arteta’s trust, but the cauldron of Bilbao on a European night presents a unique challenge.
Odegaard injury makes way for Ethan Nwaneri
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Arteta has never shied away from backing youth, and Nwaneri is the crown jewel of Arsenal’s academy pipeline. His creativity, press resistance, and ability to operate between the lines could be invaluable against an Athletic side that will look to press high and disrupt Arsenal’s rhythm.
With Martin Ødegaard a doubt, and Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka both sidelined, the need for attacking invention is clear. Nwaneri has shown composure beyond his years in cameo appearances and could thrive if given license to float behind Viktor Gyökeres and Noni Madueke. Bilbao’s midfield isn’t as physically dominant without Nico Williams leading transitions up front, which might actually provide the ideal setting for Nwaneri to express himself.
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However, San Mamés is one of the most hostile stadiums in Spain, and Athletic Bilbao are no strangers to raising their level under the floodlights.
There’s also the balance of Arsenal’s midfield to consider. With Rice and Zubimendi expected to anchor, Arteta may prefer a more experienced option like Mikel Merino or Eberechi Eze to complete the trio, ensuring Arsenal have both physicality and control in the middle of the park.
Author Opinion
The sensible call if Ødegaard is ruled out is to start Nwaneri and build on his performance against Nottingham Forest.
Related Items:Latest Ethan Nwaneri News | Transfer News | Injury News and Update, Latest Martin Odegaard News | Transfer News | Injury News and Update
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