Mikel Arteta admits Ethan Nwaneri could leave Arsenal for regular minutes
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has admitted that 19-year-old Ethan Nwaneri could leave the club this summer to secure regular first-team football.
The teenager recently returned to north London following a challenging loan spell with French side Marseille.
Despite previous concerns over his commitment abroad, the returning prospect has impressed during recent pre-season fixtures.
Pre-season progress and transfer stance
The attacking talent found the net against Borussia Dortmund in the Emirates Cup and looked sharp starting against Como on Wednesday.
However, the Gunners remain open to significant offers if they cannot guarantee him adequate playing time.
Speaking ahead of the Community Shield clash against Manchester City, the Arsenal boss outlined his philosophy regarding developing youth.
“I want him to be at the club but something is in the medium and long-term, what is the best for the player as well,” Mikel Arteta explained.
“Ethan needs to play football. If he stays here, it’s because we can guarantee that he can have those minutes.”
Overcoming loan struggles in France
The young player’s time in Ligue 1 was marred by public criticism from then-Marseille head coach Habib Beye.
In April, Beye warned that the Arsenal youngster needed to drastically improve his day-to-day application and focus.
Despite those past struggles, the Spanish manager believes his player has returned looking significantly more mature.
“I think he’s done it in a brilliant way. It’s unquestionable the talent, the desire, the love and the passion he has for the game,” Arteta noted.
With the summer transfer window closing soon, the north London outfit will explore all possibilities as they finalise their squad.