Ethan Nwaneri sends two-word message after Arsenal thrash PSV, Declan Rice reacts
Ethan Nwaneri caught the eye once again as Arsenal dismantled PSV 7-1 in a ruthless Champions League display.
Arsenal are now in pole position for a place in the quarter-finals after a dominant first-leg performance in the Round of 16.
Nwaneri capped off a brilliant individual display with a well-taken goal as the Gunners raced into a 3-0 lead inside 31 minutes but PSV briefly responded through a Noa Lang penalty.
Two quick goals early in the second half put the game beyond doubt, and Arsenal went on to make history—becoming the first team ever to score seven goals in a Champions League knockout match away from home.
Nwaneri left Premier League legend Alan Shearer stunned with the his composure and intelligence on the ball, particularly in the build-up to Martin Odegaard’s goal. After the match, he shared his thoughts following a night to remember.
Declan Rice reacts to Ethan Nwaneri’s message after Arsenal’s dominant win
The youngster took to Instagram after the match, sharing pictures from the game with a simple caption: “Top win.”
His Arsenal teammates were quick to respond, with Declan Rice and Jurrien Timber leaving comments featuring emojis, while former teammates Eddie Nketiah and Emile Smith Rowe also showed their support by liking the post.
Nwaneri has stepped up for Arsenal this season at a crucial time, with key attacking players like Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Jesus all sidelined through injury.
The lack of attacking depth has put pressure on Mikel Arteta’s squad, as the Gunners currently have no recognised striker leading the line.
Frustrated Arsenal fans have directed blame at Stan Kroenke after the club failed to sign a forward in the January transfer window, forcing Arteta to rely on Nwaneri. However, the teenager has embraced the challenge and continues to prove his immense potential.
| Arsenal’s fixtures in March | Date |
| Man United vs Arsenal | 9 March |
| Arsenal vs PSV | 12 March |
| Arsenal vs Chelsea | 16 March |
Ethan Nwaneri thriving despite Arsenal’s attacking struggles
Arsenal have been forced to start Nwaneri due to their injuries this season and has even been favoured over Raheem Sterling, who hasn’t featured in the starting XI for the past three matches.
The 17-year-old has enjoyed a breakout campaign, scoring eight goals and registering one assist in just 1,019 minutes of football.
Despite starting only 11 matches, his consistent ability to make an impact in front of goal has made him a crucial part of Arteta’s side. As Arsenal have struggled for goals in the Premier League in recent games, Nwaneri’s emergence has been a much-needed boost.