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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has thrown his support behind Ethan Nwaneri potentially earning a senior England call-up amid the ongoing international tug-of-war between Nigeria and England for the teenager’s allegiance, Footynaija.com reports.
The 17-year-old midfielder has been one of Arsenal’s brightest young prospects, catching attention with his impressive performances for both the club’s youth and first teams. His latest headline-grabbing moment came in the Gunners’ record 7-1 Champions League win over PSV Eindhoven, where he scored a stunning goal.
With Nwaneri eligible to represent both Nigeria and England at international level, speculation has mounted over which nation the youngster will choose.
Arsenal teenager Ethan Nwaneri is being considered for an England call-up by Thomas Tuchel following his brilliant form for Mikel Arteta’s side.
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) March 7, 2025
(Source: @MailSport) pic.twitter.com/hTdA0Kb71Z
However, Arteta insists the decision rests solely with England manager Thomas Tuchel and his coaching staff.
“I have no idea other than what I’ve read and heard the noise around it,” Arteta said during his press conference on Friday, as quoted by Arsenal’s official website.
“Thomas and his coaches will take the decision, and we will support it.”
Despite Nigeria’s interest in convincing Nwaneri to switch his allegiance, the midfielder’s rise through England’s youth ranks has been remarkable. He has scored 15 goals in 28 appearances for England’s U17 team and six goals in nine matches for the U19 side.
The National Sports Commission has started moves to secure the services of 17-year-old red-hot Arsenal player Ethan Nwaneri for the Nigeria Football Federation, according to Adepoju Tobi.
— Leagues Reporter (@LeaguesReporter) March 7, 2025
Is this a good move for the Super Eagles ? pic.twitter.com/TyhW5D3Sbo
Asked whether an England call-up would benefit Nwaneri’s development, Arteta expressed full confidence in the Three Lions’ setup.
“Knowing Thomas and his coaching staff and the environment they have created in the England camp, I think it would be an incredible experience for them if that is the case, whenever that is,” he added.
“That’s not my decision; how we manage him here is in our control, but there they will be coached by people that are super experienced, far more experienced than me!“
Nwaneri has scored eight goals and registered one assist in 27 games across all competitions for Arsenal this season.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the National Sports Commission are reportedly working behind the scenes to convince the youngster to commit his future to the Super Eagles — but with Arteta backing England, the race for Nwaneri’s allegiance is heating up.
