One of the standout performers in Arsenal’s 5-1 victory over Bolton Wanderers in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday was 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri, who scored twice, marking a significant milestone in his burgeoning career.
Nwaneri opened the scoring for Arsenal in the first half and later completed his brace, much to the delight of the Emirates crowd, who serenaded him with chants of “he’s one of our own.”
Reflecting on his performance, Nwaneri expressed his excitement, saying, “I’m buzzing. I’m so happy to have helped the team go through to the next round and I’m just ready for whatever’s next.”
“He’s improving daily. You can tell he’s playing without pressure, with confidence, and making decisions that show the boy is ready at this level. Today, he had a really strong performance, and I’m happy to see that,” Arteta said.
Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta was equally pleased with Nwaneri’s development.
Early Life and Club Career
Ethan Chidiebere Nwaneri was born on 21 March 2007 in Enfield, London. He attended St John’s Senior School in Enfield and is of Igbo-Nigerian descent.
At just nine years old, he joined Arsenal’s academy, quickly making a name for himself. By the age of 14, Nwaneri was already playing for the club’s under-18 side, primarily as a midfielder.
He began the 2022–23 season with Arsenal’s under-18s but quickly progressed to the under-21 side. His rapid rise continued when, at just 15 years and 181 days, Nwaneri made his Premier League debut on 18 September 2022, coming off the bench against Brentford. In doing so, he became the youngest player ever to appear in the Premier League, breaking the previous record held by Harvey Elliott.
In June 2023, Nwaneri agreed to a new deal with Arsenal, securing scholarship terms with a professional contract lined up for his 17th birthday on 21 March 2024. His star continued to rise in the 2023–24 season as he made a substitute appearance in Arsenal’s 6-0 Premier League win over West Ham United.
On 25 September 2024, Nwaneri made headlines once again by scoring his first senior goals, netting twice in Arsenal’s 5-1 win over Bolton Wanderers in the EFL Cup.
International Career
Nwaneri’s talents have not gone unnoticed on the international stage. After shining in the qualifiers, he was named in England’s squad for the 2023 UEFA European Under-17 Championship, scoring the winner in their opening match against Croatia.
He also represented England at the 2023 FIFA U-17 World Cup, scoring in their group-stage win over New Caledonia.
Most recently, Nwaneri was called up for the 2024 UEFA European Under-17 Championship, where he continued his strong form, scoring in the opening game against France and adding another goal in a group-stage win over Spain. His final goal of the tournament came in England’s quarter-final loss to Italy.
Style of Play
A versatile and attack-minded midfielder, Nwaneri is known for his creativity and skill on the ball. He has been described as a player who can operate effectively as a “number 10” but is comfortable in various attacking roles.
His ability to dribble and contribute defensively makes him a valuable asset, whether playing centrally or in wide positions.
With his talent and maturity, Ethan Nwaneri is undoubtedly one to watch as his football journey continues at Arsenal and beyond.