Mikel Arteta identifies future Arsenal striker, ‘big talent’ has ‘tremendous’ finishing skills | OneFootball

Arsenal played out a frustrating goalless draw against Everton in the Premier League last weekend.

The Gunners dominated possession over the course of the game, but they failed to breach the Toffees’ backline. There were almost 40 clearances made over 90 minutes.

Club graduate Ethan Nwaneri replaced Martin Odegaard shortly after the hour mark, but he was unable to provide a moment of magic to break the deadlock.

Despite this, Arteta has huge plans for him in future. Speaking in the pre-match presser before the Carabao Cup quarter-final against Crystal Palace, the Spaniard spoke about the teenager’s versatility.

He said (via Arsenal.com): “Depending on who they are surrounded by and depending on which position Ethan can play.

“He can play right attacking midfielder, he can play left attacking midfielder, he can play right winger – there is another position that I think he can develop into in a few years time, so there are options here.

“Nine [on which position he thinks Nwaneri could develop into]. When he’s got the goal in front of him, he just looks at the goal. He has a tremendous ability to put the ball into the back of the net.”

Arteta has an ambitious plan for Nwaneri

The youngster has made 14 appearances in his breakthrough campaign. He has netted four goals, with three of those coming in the Carabao Cup

Arteta has praised him as a ‘big talent‘ with the ‘right attitude’, and the onus should be on developing him with minutes off the bench before he can become a mainstay in the team.

As things stand, Nwaneri is the back-up choice to Martin Odegaard in the number 10 role, but he could also be a deputy for Bukayo Saka on the right side of the attack.

The 17-year-old does not have the experience to lead the line as of now, but his knack for scoring goals could entice the manager to try him in the role sooner rather than later.

Nwaneri has a similar physique to Gabriel Jesus, who has looked a shadow of himself this term.

The Brazilian’s shortcomings could open up the opportunity for Nwaneri to play up front for the Gunners in future if Arteta searches for another alternative to Kai Havertz in the squad.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com.