Arsenal secure the future of record-breaking Premier League star
Arsenal have officially confirmed that teenage midfielder Ethan Nwaneri has signed a new long-term contract with the club, reinforcing their commitment to youth development and securing the future of one of the most promising talents in English football.
Nwaneri became the youngest player in Premier League history when he made his debut for Arsenal at just 15 years old in 2022.
Since then, the attacking midfielder has progressed rapidly through the ranks, establishing himself as a regular part of Mikel Arteta’s first-team plans during the 2024–25 campaign.
Born in Islington, only a short distance from the Emirates Stadium, Nwaneri has been with the club since the age of eight and is regarded as a lifelong Arsenal supporter.
Despite reported interest from the likes of Manchester City and Chelsea during earlier stages of his development, he has remained loyal to the club that nurtured his talent.
He became the third player in Premier League history — after Michael Owen and Wayne Rooney — to register three top-flight goals before turning 18, underlining his prodigious ability and maturity on the pitch.
Among his standout moments was a Champions League goal away to Girona, which earned him the club’s Goal of the Month award. That performance was part of a highly impressive February in which he was also named Arsenal’s Player of the Month, reflecting his growing influence in the squad.
Nwaneri’s development has drawn praise from Arteta, who described him as a player capable of making a difference in tight moments and praised his courage and technical quality.
His ability to carry the ball, break lines and contribute goals has drawn comparisons with former Hale End graduates Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe.
Having featured for England’s Under-21s in their successful European Championship campaign this summer, Nwaneri is now widely seen as one of the brightest young stars in the country.
His rise from academy prospect to senior squad regular has mirrored the path of several successful Arsenal youth products before him.
Speaking after signing the new deal, Nwaneri described the extension as ‘everything’ to him and said he felt ‘at home’ at Arsenal.
With his future now secured, he will look to build on his momentum and play an even greater role in the coming season.
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