Ethan Nwaneri’s Loan Journey at Marseille: A New Chapter

Ethan Nwaneri has transitioned to Stade Velodrome after struggling to secure regular game time in north London. At Arsenal, he faces stiff competition for a starting position from notable players such as Bukayo Saka, Noni Madueke, Leandro Trossard, Gabriel Martinelli, Martin Ødegaard, and Eberechi Eze.

Due to injuries within the squad at the Emirates Stadium, including a recent setback for Mikel Merino, it has been suggested that Nwaneri might have had more opportunities had the winter transfer window concluded differently. Nevertheless, the 18-year-old midfielder harbors no regrets, as Arsenal chose not to include a recall option in his loan agreement with Marseille.

Nwaneri kicked off his new journey positively by scoring on his debut against Lens. He was given a starting role in a match against Paris FC but struggled to make an impact, being substituted in a 2-2 draw. His latest appearance was in the Coupe de France against Rennes, where he was cautioned for a robust challenge on Glen Kamara and subsequently taken off at halftime. Marseille’s head coach, Roberto De Zerbi, opted to avoid the risk of Nwaneri receiving a second yellow card in that match.

Rennes coach Habib Beye expressed his belief that Nwaneri should have been sent off, citing a mistake by the officiating team. He remarked after the game: “The match was altered by our early mistake and by that of the refereeing trio who had the honesty to admit it [that they made a mistake with Nwaneri].”

Arsenal is closely monitoring Nwaneri’s performances in France, hopeful that this loan will be beneficial for all parties involved. Mikel Arteta elaborated on the decision, stating: “We made the decision. What I would love to see from Ethan is that he scores that goal every three days, plays a lot of minutes, and gets the exposure he needs. This will aid his growth mentally, physically, and technically.”

Nwaneri himself acknowledged the adjustment period needed after his arrival in Marseille, stating, “I wasn’t 100% when I arrived, but I’m feeling better now. We’re working with the staff to improve, but I feel good. Marseille is a big club; everything is extraordinary. I didn’t hesitate in taking this opportunity. It’s a great experience.”

Arsenal deliberately refrained from including a purchase option in Nwaneri’s loan agreement, maintaining confidence that the young talent will play a significant role in their future. However, when asked about the possibility of a permanent move in the summer, Nwaneri replied, “Yes, that’s true, anything is possible in football. We’ll see what happens. I can’t predict the future, but we’ll find out when the time comes.”

Marseille is set to face off against arch-rivals Paris Saint-Germain on Sunday, while Arsenal, currently six points clear at the top of the Premier League table, will host Sunderland after securing their place in the Carabao Cup final.