'He looks like a different man' - Arteta insists Nwaneri has returned to Arsenal stronger
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta believes Ethan Nwaneri has returned a more mature player ahead of the new season despite a difficult spell at Marseille.
Nwaneri joined the Ligue 1 side during the January transfer window after finding regular first-team opportunities limited at Arsenal in the opening half of the 2025/26 season.
However, the move to the Stade Vélodrome did little to improve his fortunes, as the young midfielder struggled for consistent game time following the departure of Roberto De Zerbi—the manager who had sanctioned his loan move from the Gunners.
Speaking after Arsenal's 4-1 pre-season victory over Girona, Arteta acknowledged that Nwaneri's spell in France did not unfold as expected on the pitch but insisted the experience had contributed significantly to the youngster's personal growth and maturity off it.
"On the pitch, he didn't because a lot happened in Marseille," Artea told Arsenal's official website. "But when you just stand in front of him, you sense the maturity and he looks like a different man."
The Arsenal boss expressed confidence that the challenges the teenager faced in France would prove valuable and help shape his development as he continues his career at the North London club.
"The experience on paper, it wasn't ideal but I think he went through something that is going to help him a lot in his career," he added.
The Spanish tactician handed the Super Eagles-eligible midfielder a place in the starting lineup before withdrawing him in the second half.
Nwaneri was replaced in the 61st minute by O’Neill as Arsenal sealed a convincing 4-1 victory over Girona in their pre-season encounter.
Adeyemi Adewale
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