Mikel Arteta Insists Loaning Ethan Nwaneri Was the ‘Best Decision’ Despite Arsenal Injury Crisis

Mikel Arteta defends decision to loan Ethan Nwaneri as Arsenal injury crisis deepens across key positions

Mikel Arteta has defended Arsenal decision to loan out Ethan Nwaneri, insisting it remains the right move despite the club’s growing injury problems.

The Arsenal manager believes the Ethan Nwaneri loan serves both the player’s long-term development and the club’s future planning, even as midfield options continue to shrink.

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Nwaneri joined on a season-long loan in January 2026 after limited opportunities at the Emirates.

The 18-year-old had started just four matches in all competitions, with none in the Premier League.

Since arriving in France, he has become a regular starter and has already opened his scoring account in Ligue 1, making a strong early impact.

Injuries change the context

Arsenal’s situation has shifted rapidly since his departure.

Key midfield figures have suffered setbacks, leaving the squad stretched across competitions.

The injury list has grown as Arsenal continue to compete on multiple fronts, increasing pressure on squad depth and rotation.

This has led to renewed debate over whether Nwaneri could have played a role during this period.

Arteta has remained firm in his stance.

He stressed that decisions must be made based on context, not hindsight.

He also highlighted the importance of match minutes, experience, and development for young players.

The manager believes the move offers Nwaneri the best pathway to grow, mature, and return stronger to Arsenal.

The loan move was influenced by the presence of , whom Arteta admires.

However, De Zerbi left Marseille shortly after Nwaneri’s arrival, creating uncertainty around the project.

Despite that change, Arteta remains positive about the environment and believes the experience will still benefit the teenager’s development.

Mixed reaction from supporters

Reaction among fans and pundits has divided opinion.

Some praise the long-term planning and development focus.

Others believe the move weakened Arsenal’s depth during a demanding season.

Reports confirm there is no recall clause in the loan agreement.

Arsenal now move through a difficult phase with injuries shaping selection and structure.
For Arteta, the focus remains on long-term planning rather than short-term pressure.
For Nwaneri, the Marseille spell represents a defining stage in his development ahead of a future return to north London.

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