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Arteta Breaks Silence on Nwaneri's Future Amid Marseille Loan Links

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has publicly addressed speculation about a loan move for young midfielder Ethan Nwaneri to Marseille. He admitted the club must assess the situation as the talented teenager is not getting sufficient playing time. Arteta confirmed the club will hold discussions this week to decide the best path for Nwaneri's development. The news comes as Arsenal continue to lead the Premier League title race.

Key Points: Arteta on Nwaneri Loan: Arsenal to Decide "Best for Him"

  • Arteta confirms loan assessment for Nwaneri
  • Teenager has limited minutes this season
  • Club to hold decisive talks this week
  • Arsenal top Premier League table
  • Face Man City title challenge
2 min read

'Will do what's best for him', Arsenal manager breaks silence on Nwaneri transfer

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta addresses Ethan Nwaneri's potential loan to Marseille, citing a need for more playing time for the talented teenager.

"We will make the decision that we believe is the best one for the player, because we have a massive talent there. - Mikel Arteta"

London, Jan 21

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has broken his silence on reports linking young midfielder Ethan Nwaneri with a loan move to French club Marseille for the remainder of the season, as the Premier League table-toppers weigh their options for the highly-rated teenager.

Arteta admitted that the club would have to open itself to the possibility of letting Nwaneri leave on loan this month, as the young star is not getting enough chances to showcase his talent.

Speaking to the media, the Arsenal manager said, "We certainly have to assess the situation. Obviously, Ethan is not playing the minutes that he probably deserves and needs at his age."

England U-21 star Nwaneri is struggling to get match time at the Gunners. He has made just 12 appearances for the club this season. He is also missing a place in the team's starting eleven. Nwaneri has opened for the team just four times and has managed to score only one goal.

Arteta also confirmed that the club will hold discussions this week before taking a final decision, as Arsenal do not want to waste precious talent.

"So, we're going to sit down this week, address the situation, get everybody's opinion, and at the end we will make the decision that we believe is the best one for the player, because we have a massive talent there and we really need to look after it," Arteta added.

Meanwhile, Arsenal are closing in on another Premier League title as they currently sit at the top of the points table. The Gunners have 50 points from 22 matches and have not lost a single game in their last five outings. They will face Manchester United in their next match on Sunday.

Arsenal are, however, facing a steep challenge from Manchester City, who are currently placed second with 43 points.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
As an Indian football fan, I see this as a lesson for our youth development too. We often rush young players or let them rot on the bench. Arsenal's careful approach with a "massive talent" is the right way.
R
Rohit P
But why send him to France? The physicality and pace of the Premier League is different. Wouldn't a loan to a Championship club fighting for promotion be better? Just a thought.
S
Sarah B
It's a tough balance. Arsenal are in a title race and need depth, but you can't stifle a teenager's growth. Arteta's comments show he's putting the player's career first, which is commendable.
V
Vikram M
Completely agree with the loan. Look at what happened to Fábio Vieira—sometimes you need game time elsewhere to come back stronger. Hope he gets a good club where he will start matches.
M
Michael C
Respectfully, I think this is a bit of a PR statement. If he's such a massive talent, why only 4 starts? The squad is thin in some areas. This feels more like managing fan expectations than a genuine plan.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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