Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta faced the media on Friday ahead of his side's Premier League meeting with Bournemouth, addressing a range of topics including the future of Ethan Nwaneri.
Despite signing a new long-term contract ahead of the season, Nwaneri has struggled for playing time in 2025-2026.
He has not featured in the Premier League since entering as a late substitute in the 4-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur on November 23, 2025.
Arteta emphasised that Nwaneri remains very much part of the first-team squad and must be ready to step in whenever called upon.
In quotes relayed by Arsenal's official webpage, Arteta explained: "Every player is very important, every player has a role. That role can change throughout the season for different reasons and everybody has to be ready to play."
This season, Nwaneri has started just three of Arsenal’s 28 matches across all competitions, a sharp contrast to last term when he made sixteen starts, suggesting his role has shifted more towards the fringes of the squad.
Several Premier League clubs are reportedly monitoring the situation of Nwaneri with a view to a loan move before the close of the January transfer window.
Ifeanyi Emmanuel
Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com
Share on Social Media
Link copied to clipboard!