Mikel Arteta Urged to Let Arsenal Star Ethan Nwaneri Leave on Loan

Arsenal legend warns that Ethan Nwaneri loan move is essential for consistent minutes and long-term progression.

Arsenal legend Lauren believes Ethan Nwaneri needs a loan move in January after the teenage midfielder struggled for minutes this season, despite his impressive breakthrough campaign and long-term commitment to the club. His limited playing time has raised concerns about whether he can continue developing at the pace expected of one of Arsenal’s brightest academy prospects.

Nwaneri enjoyed a standout 2024/25 season, making 26 Premier League appearances and scoring four goals, a run of form that earned him a new long-term contract last summer. However, the current season has taken a different turn.

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With Arsenal adding Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke to their squad and Leandro Trossard maintaining excellent form, opportunities for the teenager have become extremely scarce. In fact, he has yet to start a single Premier League match this season, even during periods when injuries affected the squad.

Lauren’s Public Advice for Arteta

Lauren, who was part of Arsenal’s iconic Invincibles team, believes this situation is harmful to Nwaneri’s progress. While speaking to Metro, he insisted the midfielder “has to play” and argues that a January loan would give him the regular minutes he needs to continue growing.

Reports around the club suggest Arsenal are open to sanctioning a loan if the right opportunity arises, especially as they consider how best to balance youth development with the demands of a title challenge.

Arsenal are not expected to make major signings in January after their heavy summer investment, but outgoings remain possible. Nwaneri is one of the most likely candidates to leave temporarily, with the club keen to ensure he gains experience rather than stagnates on the bench.

While other players such as Gabriel Martinelli, Ben White and Gabriel Jesus have been linked with possible exits, those discussions centre on long-term decisions rather than short-term loans.

A loan move makes strategic sense for all parties. At 18, Nwaneri needs regular football to sharpen his decision-making, improve his physicality, and build confidence.

Arsenal’s current attacking depth means minutes will remain limited in the second half of the campaign, making a temporary move the most realistic pathway for his continued development. A successful loan spell could allow him to return in the summer as a stronger, more polished option for Mikel Arteta.

Lauren’s comments highlight the delicate balance Arsenal must maintain as they pursue trophies while also nurturing elite young talent. For Nwaneri, a loan in January could be the ideal solution — giving him the platform to grow while ensuring Arsenal remain on track in their push for silverware.

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