West Ham United dodged Ethan Nwaneri bullet as Marseille boss speaks out about Arsenal gem
West Ham United's transfer chiefs will be breathing a sigh of relief that Arsenal never sanctioned a Premier League switch for Ethan Nwaneri.
The 19-year-old playmaker was heavily linked with moves across England during the winter transfer window, with the Hammers joined by multiple other clubs in the race for his signature [Football London].
However, he would eventually join Ligue 1 giants Marseille on loan in January, where he has since made 11 appearances across all competitions, notching two goals and one assist.
His minutes have reduced significantly in recent weeks, though, and it would appear that West Ham have succeeded in avoiding his transfer, especially after the Marseille boss openly criticised the player.
Ethan Nwaneri has his commitment questioned at Marseille
After recording nine goals and two assists during the 2024-25 campaign, supporters at the Emirates Stadium were expecting him to become an integral member of Mikel Arteta's squad.
That has not happened, however, and fans are now concerned by Habib Beye's comments in France, with the youngster being questioned for his commitment while out on loan this season.
Speaking to the media recently, Beye said: “He’s a quality player. But he has to show us a lot more in his everyday commitment. Other players have shown a lot more.”
| Ethan Nwaneri in Marseille's last four matches | Nice | Lorient | Metz | Monaco |
| Minutes played | 0 | 31 | 0 | 17 |
| Goals | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Assists | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Shot accuracy | N/A | 0% (0/1) | N/A | 100% (9/9) |
| Successful dribbles | N/A | 33% (1/3) | N/A | 0% (0/0) |
| Ground duels won | N/A | 25% (1/4) | N/A | 0% (0/0) |
Despite these comments, however, it would not be a surprise to see Nuno's side go back in for the 19-year-old's signature this summer should they secure safety in the Premier League.
Why would West Ham go back in for Nwaneri's signature?
Nwaneri has proven himself in the Premier League before, so even after a difficult spell in France, clubs back in England are likely to be vying for his signature ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.
And even if the Hammers are able to stay in the division, it would appear that West Ham are resigned to losing Mateus Fernandes and, possibly, Crysencio Summerville following a difficult season.
Fernandes has been a creative spark for Nuno's side, attracting attention from giants across Europe, and his goal contributions would certainly be a miss, with Summerville and Jarrod Bowen also linked with exits.
Nwaneri needs a chance to reignite his career away from the Emirates, and a move to the London Stadium could help him find that, especially after a difficult six months across the British Channel.