Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was informed about the clubβs future star, Ethan Nwaneri, from the very beginning of his tenure at the Emirates. During a discussion with the then Under-16s coach, Dan Micciche, Arteta was told that Nwaneri had the potential to be the βnext Phil Foden.β
Despite a challenging start as Arsenalβs head coach, where calls for his dismissal grew louder, Arteta remained steadfast. The Spaniard managed to secure an FA Cup win in 2020, which bought him some time. However, the subsequent struggles, including losing the first three matches of the 2021/22 season, tested the patience of many fans. Yet, the mantra βtrust the processβ prevailed.
Today, Arteta has not only built a competitive first-team squad but has also deeply invested in the clubβs youth system. His commitment to nurturing young talent was evident from his early interaction with Micciche, where he discussed Nwaneriβs potential and future in the senior team. At just 12 years old, Nwaneri was already standing out in the Under-16s, and Arteta was informed that he had qualities similar to Manchester Cityβs rising star, Foden.
Micciche recalled Nwaneriβs exceptional decision-making and even pushed for him to play with the Under-18s at just 14. His foresight proved accurate, as Nwaneri made history as Arsenalβs youngest-ever debutant at the age of 15 in a match against Brentford in September 2022.
Since then, Nwaneri has continued to impress. He recently scored twice in Arsenalβs emphatic victory over Bolton Wanderers in the League Cup, fueling speculation about his potential inclusion in upcoming Premier League fixtures. With Artetaβs dedication to youth development, the search for the βnext Ethan Nwaneriβ is already underway, as the manager continues to scout and develop future talents.