Arsenal's highly-rated young midfielder, Ethan Nwaneri, has officially committed his future to the club by signing a new five-year contract. The deal, which runs until 2030, puts an end to speculation surrounding the 18-year-old's future, with several Premier League rivals reportedly monitoring his situation. Nwaneri's new contract is subject to the completion of regulatory processes.
Nwaneri, who has been with Arsenal since the age of eight, expressed his delight at signing the new deal. "Signing this contract means everything to me," he said. "I see this as my first real season in men's senior football, as part of the squad in the changing room. I'm so excited for what I can bring to the team, I want to help us win as much as possible and bring happiness and glory to the club. This is where I feel at home". He also highlighted his development at the club, stating, "This is where I feel at home and where I'm going to develop the best".
Nwaneri made history in September 2022 when he became the youngest player to ever feature in the Premier League, at the age of 15 years and 181 days, during Arsenal's 3-0 victory against Brentford. Last season marked his breakthrough into the first team, where he made 37 appearances, including 16 starts, and scored nine goals. His goals included a brace against Bolton Wanderers in the League Cup, a spectacular long-range effort against Preston North End, and his first Premier League goal against Nottingham Forest. In January, he became only the third player after Michael Owen and Wayne Rooney to score three Premier League goals before turning 18. He also scored his first Champions League goal against Girona, which was later voted as Arsenal's Goal of the Month.
Nwaneri's impressive performances earned him the club's Player of the Month award for February, a month that included a memorable goal in a 5-1 victory over Manchester City. He also made his debut for the England U-18 team on his 18th birthday in May and was part of the England U-21 squad that won the European Championship in June 2025.
Looking ahead to the new season, Nwaneri is eager to make an even greater impact. "I'm very excited," he said. "I see this as my first real season and part of a proper squad in the changing room. I'm so excited for what I can bring to the team and how I can help the team". He has also switched his shirt number from 53 to 22, previously worn by goalkeeper David Raya. Nwaneri sees this season as his first real season in men's senior football.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta reportedly plans to give Nwaneri a more prominent role in the team, potentially in a central position. Nwaneri is a versatile player, ready to play anywhere across the front five and do what the manager needs. With the arrival of Noni Madueke, Nwaneri may transition into a more central role.
Nwaneri's advice to other Arsenal academy players is to "Keep patient and have goals in your head". He emphasizes the importance of hard work and maintaining a long-term vision. With Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly now established in Arteta's plans, a new burst of energy can be felt around Hale End, inspiring the next generation of youngsters.
