Arsenal teenager set for promotion to first team ahead of next season

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Arsenal are reportedly set to promote academy star Ethan Nwaneri to the first team after another outstanding season with the academy. The move comes amid ongoing speculation that Emile Smith Rowe could leave the club this summer, creating an opening in the squad.

Despite his immense talent, Smith Rowe has struggled to get consistent first-team opportunities, leading to rumors of his potential departure. If he left, Nwaneri, who has been training with the senior team for over a year, would benefit considerably.

Nwaneri recently ended speculation over his future by signing his first professional contract, joining Arsenal. Known as one of the brightest prospects at the club's Hale End academy, Nwaneri made history by making his debut for the senior team aged just 15, making him the youngest player to do so. do for the Gunners and the youngest player in the English elite. soccer.

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Now 17, Nwaneri had attracted interest from Chelsea and Manchester City, but his new contract ensures his future remains with Arsenal. His recent performances, including a display off the bench in Arsenal's 6-0 win over West Ham, have highlighted his potential.

At Arsenal, Nwaneri would be mentored by team captain Martin Ødegaard to facilitate his development and integration into the first team. The club have closely followed Nwaneri's progress since his early days at Hale End, where he excelled in the higher age groups, scoring for the U14s at 12 and twice for the U18s at 14.

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After signing his professional contract, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta challenged Nwaneri to earn a place in the first team. Arteta expressed his satisfaction with Nwaneri's progress and highlighted the opportunity he now has.

“I was really happy [for Nwaneri signing a professional contract]” said Arteta. “He had a great day, he had all his family and important people around him. A really proud moment to see another academy graduate sign his pro contract. He is very close to the first team. The opportunity is there, now he must seize it.

Arteta's challenge and Ødegaard's mentorship should play a crucial role in Nwaneri's path to establishing himself in Arsenal's first team.

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