Arsenal fans react with dismay to ‘sad’ Ethan Nwaneri development
Ethan Nwaneri was tipped to become one of the next best talents out of the Arsenal academy system.
After breaking through into the first team, Arsenal sent Nwaneri out on loan to French club Marseille for his development in the January transfer window.
With the Gunners flying at the top of the Premier League table, the 18-year-old had only made 12 appearances for Mikel Arteta’s side this season.
Nwaneri was praised on his Marseille debut when the midfielder scored against Lens, but he has struggled to make an impact since.
Ethan Nwaneri ‘is not looking good’ at Marseille
The teenager has been substituted off at half-time in successive games by former Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi.
Nwaneri particularly struggled as Marseille were thrashed 5-0 by rivals PSG in Ligue 1 last time out, leaving them fourth in the table.
Against PSG, Nwaneri had 27 touches of the ball, had zero shots on goal, successfully completed zero dribbles, and won just two of his seven ground duels.
Nwaneri’s display has left Arsenal fans questioning whether the player has a long-term future at the club, with many having been expecting more from his loan spell.
One fan claimed Nwaneri’s performances were proof why Arteta did not play him as often as supporters wanted the Spaniard to this season.
Arsenal could pursue double summer signings
Whilst Nwaneri faces fierce competition for a place in the Arsenal squad already, Arteta is still looking to add to his team in the summer.
Moves could be on the cards for both Bayern Munich midfielder Leon Goretzka and Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez.
Arsenal could sign Goretzka as a free agent in the summer, although there will be plenty of competition to fend off for the 31-year-old’s signature.
Meanwhile, Alvarez could command a fee of £80million if Arsenal want to sign the former Manchester City player, who is currently Atletico Madrid’s joint top goalscorer in La Liga.
Gabriel Jesus’ future at the Emirates has been in doubt, whilst question marks remain over the form of Viktor Gyokeres.
Arsenal are currently six points clear at the top of the Premier League, and face Brentford next in pursuit of the title.