53 Ethan Nwaneri

Ethan Chidiebere Nwaneri was born on 21 March 2007 in Enfield, London, to an Igbo Nigerian father and an English mother. He attended St John’s Senior School in Enfield.

Club Career

Arsenal Academy and Early Progression

Nwaneri joined Arsenal at eight years old and rapidly advanced through the ranks. By 14, he was already playing for the club’s under-18 side, showcasing immense potential as a midfielder.

2022–23 Season: Record-Breaking Debut

Starting the season with Arsenal’s under-18s, Nwaneri’s talent quickly propelled him to the under-21 squad. In September 2022, he joined the first-team training sessions and was named as a substitute for Arsenal’s Premier League clash against Brentford on 18 September.

Coming on as a substitute for Fábio Vieira, he made history as the youngest-ever Premier League player at just 15 years and 181 days, surpassing Harvey Elliott’s record. He also became Arsenal’s youngest-ever player in any competition, breaking Cesc Fàbregas’ previous record.

Mikel Arteta revealed post-match that injuries, particularly to captain Martin Ødegaard, and a “gut feeling” led to Nwaneri’s debut. In June 2023, he committed to Arsenal with scholarship terms and a professional contract set for his 17th birthday.

2023–24 Season: First Premier League Minutes

Nwaneri made another step forward, featuring as a substitute in Arsenal’s 6–0 victory over West Ham United. Arteta highlighted the squad’s eagerness to see him play, reinforcing his growing reputation.

2024–25 Season: Breakthrough and First Goals

Nwaneri’s development reached new heights with his first senior goals. On 25 September 2024, he scored twice in Arsenal’s 5–1 EFL Cup win over Bolton Wanderers. His stunning long-range strike against Preston North End in the following round solidified his reputation as a scoring threat.

His first Premier League goal came on 23 November 2024, in a 3–0 win over Nottingham Forest, making him the ninth-youngest scorer in league history at 17 years, 247 days.

By January 2025, Nwaneri was reaching new milestones:

• Scored in a 1–1 draw against Brighton, becoming only the third player to net five goals in a season before turning 18 (joining Michael Owen and Wayne Rooney).
• Netted his first UEFA Champions League goal on 29 January 2025, sealing a 2–1 win over Girona.
• Delivered a spectacular stoppage-time goal against Manchester City in a 5–1 victory on 2 February 2025.
• Earned Man of the Match in a 2–0 win over Leicester City after assisting Mikel Merino and hitting the woodwork twice.

International Career

England Youth Representation

Eligible to play for Nigeria, Nwaneri chose to represent England at youth level. His international journey includes:

• 2023 UEFA European U-17 Championship: Scored the winning goal in England’s opening match against Croatia.
• 2023 FIFA U-17 World Cup: Scored in England’s opener against New Caledonia and featured in all group stage games.
• 2024 UEFA European U-17 Championship: Continued his scoring streak with goals against France, Spain, and Italy before England’s quarter-final exit.

Playing Style

Nwaneri is a dynamic and versatile attacking midfielder, capable of playing centrally or in wide positions. He thrives in a “number 10” role, known for his dribbling, creativity, and finishing. Additionally, his defensive contributions make him a well-rounded talent with immense potential.