Arsenal team news and confirmed lineup as Ethan Nwaneri makes starting debut in UCL clash against PSV

Photo credit: GETTY IMAGES

Table of Contents

Mikel Arteta has announced his starting lineup, with no changes on the injury front from last week’s draw at Nottingham Forest.

Arsenal’s young prodigy Ethan Nwaneri will make his starting debut against PSV Eindhoven in a highly anticipated UEFA Champions League knockout match. This exciting development has fans buzzing as the 17-year-old forward steps onto the European stage for the first time in a starting role.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed the starting lineup for the crucial first-leg match at the Philips Stadion in Eindhoven. The Gunners have been dealing with a series of injuries, with key forwards Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, Gabriel Jesus, and Kai Havertz all unavailable. Despite these challenges, Arteta has shown confidence in Nwaneri, who has impressed in recent domestic matches.

Arsenal’s confirmed starting lineup:

Goalkeeper: David Raya
Defenders: Jurrien Timber, William Saliba, Gabriel, Myles Lewis-Skelly
Midfielders: Martin Odegaard (captain), Thomas Partey, Declan Rice
Forwards: Ethan Nwaneri, Mikel Merino, Leandro Trossard

Nwaneri will be taking up the right-wing position, a role he has excelled in during recent Premier League matches. His inclusion in the starting XI is a testament to his rapid development and the trust Arteta has in his abilities.

Nwaneri’s start in this high-stakes match is not just a personal achievement but also a historic moment for Arsenal. At 17 years and 348 days old, he will be one of the youngest players to start in a Champions League knockout game, joining the ranks of Phil Foden and Jude Bellingham. This opportunity comes as a result of his impressive performances, including a standout display in Arsenal’s last league-phase game against Girona, where he scored a crucial goal.

Arsenal faces a formidable opponent in PSV Eindhoven, who have shown resilience and skill in their journey to the knockout stages. The Gunners will need to be at their best to secure a positive result in the first leg and take an advantage back to the Emirates for the second leg.