Mikel Arteta urges Ethan Nwaneri to seize Arsenal chance after signing first professional contract
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has challenged Ethan Nwaneri to break into the first team after the teenager signed his first professional contract.
The midfielder shot to fame last season when he became the youngest player in Premier League history, making his debut at just 15 years and 181 days old.
Nwaneri has since signed pro terms with Arsenal, putting pen to paper last week, and the Gunners fought off interest from Chelsea and Manchester City to keep him.
The 17-year-old has long been tipped for the top and came off the bench in the league in February when Arsenal beat West Ham 6-0.
Arteta has admitted that Nwaneri is “very close” to the first team and challenged him to break into his plans.
“I was really happy [for Nwaneri signing a professional contract],” he said. “He had a great day, he had all his family and important people around him.
“A really proud moment to see another academy graduate signing his pro contract. He is very close to the first team. The opportunity is there, now he needs to take it.”
Nwaneri has predominantly been playing for Arsenal’s youth teams this season, scoring 14 goals in as many appearances.
Arsenal academy manager Per Mertesacker said: “We are extremely proud of Ethan and his journey, from pre-academy to Hale End, then a seamless transition to Sobha Realty Training Centre and then making his first-team debut.
“Ethan’s journey now continues, and we will all be there alongside him to support his development.
“Ethan has a strong ability to master the ball and dominate possession, this is what we are all about at Arsenal Football Club.”
