16yo midfielder of Nigerian descent trained with Arsenal first team before 4-1 win v Leeds

England U17 international of Nigerian descent Ethan Nwaneri was in contention to be named in Arsenal's matchday squad for the visit of Leeds United on Saturday, April 1.

According to Arsenal youth team expert, Jeorge Bird, the Hale End product was involved in the Gunners' final workout before they faced Leeds United. 

Nwaneri eventually missed out on the matchday squad, with Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta selecting Martin Ødegaard and Emile Smith Rowe in the 20-man squad. 

The 16-year-old has not received a call-up for a first team game since entering the history books as the youngest player to debut in the Premier League when he made his senior debut at Brentford on September 18, 2022. 

Since then, he has played for Arsenal's youth teams in the U18 Premier League, U18 Premier League Cup, Papa John's Trophy, Premier League 2 and FA Youth Cup.

Nwaneri put on stunning performances during the international break, netting back-to-back braces against Denmark and Northern Ireland to help the Young Lions qualify for the 2023 European U17 Championship.

Arsenal have entered into negotiations with Nwaneri's camp over extending his stay at the Emirates Stadium and there are two possible scenarios, either he signs a scholarship with a professional deal attached or joins one of the clubs interested in his signature. 

The Gunners maintained their eight-point gap at the top of the Premier League table with a 4-1 rout of Leeds United at the Emirates Stadium.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

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