Nwaneri Steps Up as Arsenal Deals with Saka’s Absence

17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri’s first Premier League start was unforgettable, stepping into Bukayo Saka’s role with maturity beyond his years.

January 3, 2025
9:22 pm

Gabriel Martinelli’s recent comments about Bukayo Saka show just how much Arsenal relies on the England winger. Losing him to a hamstring injury is a big hit, and now the Gunners need to step up. They showed their grit in a 3-1 win over Brentford, which highlighted their adaptability and the rise of a new star.

Goals from Gabriel Jesus and Martinelli surrounded Mikel Merino’s close-range strike, but the real standout was 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri. In his first Premier League start, the teen was key, setting up Arsenal’s second and third goals. His corner led to Merino’s equalizer, and his cross, which was half-cleared, was finished off by Martinelli.

Nwaneri’s debut at just 15 hinted at his talent, but this game really showed he’s a rising star. With Saka out, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta put Nwaneri in Saka’s usual spot as a left-footed right winger, and it worked wonders.

The match had its challenges beyond Saka’s absence. Illness kept Kai Havertz out and affected others, which partly explained Arsenal’s slow start. Arteta has tried different solutions for Saka’s absence—from Martinelli on the right to a new formation against Shakhtar Donetsk—but Nwaneri’s inclusion brought everything together.

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Nwaneri impressed with just a few touches in the first half, completing all 17 of his passes. In the second half, he really shone, showing off his confidence and maturity. “He’s brave, bold, and a joy to watch,” said pundit Karen Carney. Martin Keown added, “It’s all there under the bonnet. He’s going to be an important player for Arsenal.”

Arteta praised Nwaneri’s performance: “We’re building him up, managing expectations. He was the best player for that position today, and he delivered.”

Nwaneri’s touch map looked a lot like Saka’s in his last full league game, showing he fits right into Arsenal’s system. On the other hand, Martinelli’s time on the right against Ipswich showed the downsides of that setup, with fewer touches and no chances created. Back on the left against Brentford, Martinelli thrived, racking up four shots, four chances, and a goal.

Meanwhile, Jesus has been on fire in Saka’s absence. With six goals in his last four matches, he’s become a key scorer. Arteta noted, “It’s about sharing the goals. Jesus and Martinelli have stepped up.”

There are growing calls for reinforcements in January, but Arsenal’s options are limited. With Saka out until at least March, keeping up with leaders Liverpool will be tough. Still, with young talents like Nwaneri rising and seasoned players finding their form, Arsenal’s spark is alive.