Ethan Nwaneri makes claim about his Arsenal minutes | OneFootball

Ethan Nwaneri insists he can handle inconsistent minutes at Arsenal while he’s developing, and he’s willing to play whichever position helps the team.

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In many ways, 2024/25 was an excellent season for Arsenal’s Ethan Nwaneri. The 18-year-old made 37 appearances for the Gunners, scoring nine goals and providing two assists, making his Champions League debut and featuring in a semi-final along the way.

Yet the line of progression into the Arsenal starting lineup wasn’t always a linear one. Nwaneri had a run in the team while Bukayo Saka was injured, but he had to settle for a bench role after the England international returned.

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Fortunately, Nwaneri seems to be taking that all in his stride, suggesting there’s nothing unusual about being in and out of the team at this stage.

“Going from playing quite a lot to not playing as much is normal in football,” Nwaneri told The Athletic. “So I don’t really take it to heart. I understand Mikel’s got a decision to make at the end of the day, and it’s hard for him to make.

“He obviously wants to include everyone but he can’t. But I think it’s part of football and it’s those times that can really define where you’re going to be. I think I’ve dealt with it well. I’m in a good place mentally and physically.”

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As alluded to earlier, Nwaneri was generally selected as an alternative to Saka on the right wing this season, but some feel his best position is in midfield, or perhaps even up front.

Again, Nwaneri insists he’s ready to be flexible, adapting to the needs of the team.

“You can see sometimes I’m a natural midfielder,” Nwaneri added. “But I think if the manager wants you to play in a position, you have to do it to the best of your abilities.

“I don’t mind playing there because anywhere for the Arsenal first team I’ll be happy playing, and trying to do a good job for the team. I’ve played false nine before a few times, actually. I think I can do a role anywhere that the manager needs me.”

Wherever he ends up playing, it’s clear Nwaneri has the talent to make an impact. The Gunners are keen to get him tied down to a contract extension, but for the time being he’s away with the England u21s at the European Championships.