Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has shared an honest update about Ethan Nwaneri and his future at the club. The young midfielder is close to joining Marseille on loan until the end of the season. Ethan Nwaneri is one of Arsenal’s brightest talents, but he has not played many games this year. Because of this, Arsenal feel a loan move could help him grow, learn, and play more football.
🚨👋🏾 Mikel Arteta confirms Ethan Nwaneri’s set to leave Arsenal on loan: “He is probably not playing the minutes he deserves. We have a massive talent there and we need to look after him”.
Loan move to Olympique Marseille will be sealed on Wednesday. 🔵⚪️ pic.twitter.com/i9jrT1Xq8q
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 20, 2026
Why Ethan Nwaneri Has Not Played Much at Arsenal
Ethan Nwaneri is only 18 years old, but many people believe he has a big future. While practising a session with the first team, he showed his skill and ability. But the Arsenal squad is so strong, which makes it difficult for him to get more minutes.
This season, Nwaneri has mostly sat on the bench. He started only one match, which was against Slavia Prague in November. Apart from that, he has played just a few minutes as a substitute in European games. He has not started a Premier League match yet.
Mikel Arteta spoke about this after Arsenal beat Inter Milan 3-1 in the Champions League. Nwaneri was on the bench again but did not play. Arteta said the young player deserves more minutes at his age. He also said the club needs to decide what is best for his future.
Arsenal want to protect Nwaneri’s development. They believe that watching games is not enough for a young player. He needs to play often to improve his skills and confidence.
Ethan Nwaneri Loan Move to Marseille Explained
Arsenal have been in talks with Marseille about a loan move for Ethan Nwaneri. Reports say both clubs have agreed on the deal. The loan is expected to last until the end of the season. Nwaneri is set to travel for a medical to complete the move.
The deal may include a loan fee. This fee could change depending on how many games Nwaneri plays for Marseille. Arsenal want him to play often, not sit on the bench again.
Marseille are managed by Roberto De Zerbi, who is known for helping young players improve. Arsenal trust him to give Nwaneri the right support and chances. Playing in Ligue 1 will also help the teenager experience a new country, a new league, and a different style of football.
Nwaneri himself is passionate about the move. He wants to learn, grow, and test himself in a new environment. This loan could be a big step in his career.
Fans React to Ethan Nwaneri’s Loan Move
Arsenal fans have shared many opinions about Ethan Nwaneri’s loan move. Most fans believe it is a smart choice. They feel the young player needs regular football to develop properly.
Some supporters said they will miss seeing him at Arsenal. They believe he has special talent and could help the team. However, many also agree that staying on the bench would not help him improve.
Fans have wished him good luck at Marseille. Many hope he plays every week and comes back stronger.
MIkel allows Nwaneri to go Marseille
This loan move could be very important for Ethan Nwaneri. Playing more games will help him gain confidence and experience. It will also prepare him for the Premier League in the future.
For Arsenal, the move shows they care about young players. They want to develop talent the right way. If Nwaneri does well in France, he could return ready to fight for a place in the first team next season.
Author’s Opinion
Ethan Nwaneri’s going to Marseille is all about growth and learning. He will get more minutes, and with new challenges, the young star has a big chance to improve and return to the Gunners stronger than ever.
As featured on GoonerNews.com