‘It’s something that I can’t control’ – Mikel Arteta on loaning Ethan Nwaneri to Marseille despite Roberto De Zerbi’s departure | OneFootball

The week has been tumultuous in Marseille, for some it must be more a shock than others. Arsenal loaned Ethan Nwaneri to the Provence club, with Mikel Arteta citing Roberto De Zerbi a major factor in his decision to give the young Englishman game-time with OM. Yet, the last week has seen the Italian depart the club, after mutually agreeing to part ways with Marseille early Tuesday morning following a 5-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain. Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta admitted that De Zerbi’s departure came as a surprise, but that he still believes Nwaneri can learn and grow at Marseille. “It’s something I can’t control,” admitted the former PSG player at a press conference transcribed by the Evening Standard. “Once again, it’s a decision that’s part of the game when you’re on loan, and it’s part of a football player’s career.”“So you have to work with different coaches, and it can happen at any time. You can’t control it, you can’t avoid it,” added Arteta. “Yes, De Zerbi was one of the reasons for the loan to OM. But it was also Marseille, and what Marseille, as a club and environment, brings to Ethan. I think it will remain very positive.”Les Olympiens face Strasbourg this weekend needing points in Ligue 1, and a confidence boost. With De Zerbi gone, Marseille will be led by interim manager Jacques Abardonado. GFFN | George Boxall