Arsenal undertook warm-weather training in Dubai for the past week, during which Declan Rice and juvenile Ethan Nwaneri shared the field.
The Arsenal had an equally dismal conclusion to 2023 and an even worse beginning to 2024. The team has failed to secure a victory in their last seven games across all competitions, and an improvement is urgently required. A productive sojourn in Dubai ought to benefit Arsenal, and youthful Nwaneri must have also gained invaluable experience.
In recent years, Arsenal’s academy has produced some of the nation’s elite athletes.
Bukayo Saka serves as a notable illustration. The young Englishman is currently one of the greatest players in the Premier League due to his phenomenal form over the past few seasons.
At Hale End, numerous youthful talents are advancing through the ranks, but Ethan Nwaneri, who is only 15 years old, is arguably the most exciting.
A tremendous future awaits the 16-year-old, who last season became the youngest player in the history of the competition to make a Premier League appearance.
In addition to frequently training with the first team, Mikel Arteta called him up for the journey to Dubai, where he joined stars such as Declan Rice in the training camp.
The 25-year-old appears to be quite impressed with Nwaneri subsequent to their training together. Rice has even referred to the child on Instagram as his “Little Bro.”
Presently, Ethan Nwaneri is arguably the most promising youth player for Arsenal.
At the tender age of 16, the midfielder has demonstrated exceptional prowess in the field. Premature to be given consistent opportunities with the first team, he has already established himself as an academy sensation.
Arsenal’s elimination from both the FA Cup and the League Cup this season is regrettable. In the coming months, this makes it more difficult for Mikel Arteta to provide opportunities for inexperienced players like Nwaneri.
Notwithstanding this, should Arsenal prevail over Porto in the initial leg of their Champions League match, Arsenal’s manager might consider giving Nwaneri an opportunity in the rematch.
Regardless, there is a significant likelihood that 2024 will serve as his breakthrough year.