Hale End graduate rejects Dortmund model to fight for his place at Arsenal

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·15 luglio 2025

Hale End graduate rejects Dortmund model to fight for his place at Arsenal

Rejecting a Bellingham-style route to stardom, Ethan Nwaneri is backing himself to earn a long-term role in Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal squad, according to new information from a reputable source.

Following weeks of speculation surrounding his contract situation, with only one year remaining on his current deal, promising news has emerged regarding the teenager’s future.

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Contract stand-off resolved

There had been widespread suggestions that Nwaneri was hesitant to commit, reportedly seeking guarantees over first-team minutes. With Arsenal reinforcing their attacking options, some questioned whether such assurances could reasonably be given.

Interest from rival clubs added another layer of uncertainty. But despite external offers, including one from Borussia Dortmund, Nwaneri is now set to sign a new contract at Arsenal.

As cited by Hand of Arsenal via X, the young forward has now decided to stay and continue his development in North London.

Faith in the Arsenal pathway

His commitment suggests that Nwaneri still believes in his ability to rise through the ranks and compete for a starting spot, even with the arrival of Noni Madueke and the potential signing of Eberechi Eze.

Had he been uncertain, Dortmund’s offer would have been an enticing alternative. The Bundesliga side had earmarked Nwaneri as a long-term midfield prospect and were prepared to replicate the tailored development plan that helped Jude Bellingham thrive after his move from Birmingham. Their model promised game time and a central role.

For many young talents, such a blueprint would be irresistible.

But Nwaneri turned it down, confident that his future lies at Arsenal.

With 26 Premier League appearances already under his belt, returning four goals and two assists, and two more goals from seven Champions League outings, the 18-year-old has already shown he belongs at this level. His new contract could mark the next chapter in his rise at his boyhood club.

With Martin Ødegaard in need of a consistent deputy, Nwaneri may yet prove to be the ideal candidate.

What do you make of Nwaneri’s decision, Gooners? Right call to stay and fight for his place?

Daniel Onguko

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