Liverpool Legend Steven Gerrard Praises ‘Very Clever’ Mikel Arteta as Arsenal Agree January Transfer

Steven Gerrard praises Mikel Arteta decision after Arsenal confirm Ethan Nwaneri loan move for January development boost

Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard praises Mikel Arteta after Arsenal agreed a January loan move for teenage midfielder Ethan Nwaneri, hailing the decision as a smart long-term play that prioritises elite player development over short-term squad depth.

Steven Gerrard praise emerged after Arsenal sanctioned Nwaneri’s temporary switch to Marseille, a move designed to secure regular first-team football for the highly rated 18-year-old during a decisive stage of his development.

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Ethan Nwaneri, who made Premier League history in 2022 as the competition’s youngest-ever player aged just 15, has struggled for consistent minutes this season despite remaining a valued squad member.

The England youth international featured regularly across competitions last campaign, but Arsenal’s title push and deep Champions League run have limited opportunities this term, with most of his appearances coming in domestic cup ties.

With Arsenal chasing major honours on multiple fronts, Mikel Arteta approved a loan that allows Nwaneri to play senior football without compromising the club’s long-term plans.

Steven Gerrard Praises Mikel Arteta’s “Very Clever” Planning

Speaking on TNT Sports, Gerrard applauded Arteta’s decision-making, describing the loan as a rare example of elite squad management done right.

Gerrard highlighted the choice of Marseille and their head coach Roberto De Zerbi as a key factor, pointing to the Italian’s reputation for improving young players through tactical education and trust.

The former Liverpool captain believes the environment will accelerate Nwaneri’s maturity while exposing him to high-pressure European football.

Marseille currently sit near the top end of Ligue 1 and are competing in Europe, offering Nwaneri both intensity and responsibility.

Roberto De Zerbi’s possession-based, attacking system mirrors many of the tactical principles used at Arsenal, making the transition smoother and increasing the likelihood of meaningful minutes.

Gerrard believes that combination of elite coaching, atmosphere, and regular football will return a more complete player to North London.

Despite Arsenal’s immediate ambitions, Arteta has repeatedly shown a willingness to prioritise player pathways when the timing is right.

Gerrard acknowledged that keeping Nwaneri around the squad would have offered short-term depth, but stressed that elite prospects only reach their ceiling through match exposure.

Former Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart agreed, noting that Arsenal’s current standards require merit-based selection, making loans a logical step for young players during title races.

What Happens Next for Ethan Nwaneri?

The plan is for Nwaneri to return at the end of the season with increased experience, physical resilience, and tactical understanding.

If the move succeeds, Arsenal could reintegrate him as a genuine first-team option rather than a fringe prospect—exactly the outcome Arteta and the club hierarchy are targeting.

Steven Gerrard praises Mikel Arteta for making a calm, intelligent decision that reflects Arsenal’s long-term vision. While the Gunners push for silverware, the club continues to build sustainably—ensuring talents like Ethan Nwaneri are developed, not rushed.

If Marseille delivers the minutes and mentorship expected, this January loan could prove decisive in shaping Arsenal’s midfield future.

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