'Throw him in' - Former Arsenal defender urges Arteta to start Nwaneri against Chelsea

Former Arsenal defender Kieran Gibbs has urged Mikel Arteta to give young talent Ethan Nwaneri a chance in Arsenal's upcoming clash against Chelsea.

Gibbs believes that Nwaneri, who has impressed in recent Carabao Cup outings, could provide a much-needed boost to an Arsenal side struggling to find form.

Nwaneri has already made a name for himself as a future star for the Gunners. The young midfielder has been in excellent form, scoring three goals in two starts in the League Cup this season.

His skill and maturity on the ball have captured fans' attention, with many calling for his inclusion as Arsenal works to address recent setbacks in the league.

In 2022, Nwaneri made history when he became the youngest player to debut in the Premier League at 15 years and 181 days, also breaking Cesc Fàbregas' record as Arsenal’s youngest-ever player across all competitions.

His early promise has only grown, as fans have seen him continue to develop and gain confidence on the pitch.

Gibbs, providing analysis on ESPN, believes that now is the ideal moment for Arteta to bring Nwaneri into the starting lineup.

With Arsenal struggling in the Premier League—having failed to secure a victory in their last three matches, including losses to Newcastle and Bournemouth and a draw against Liverpool at the Emirates—Gibbs sees Nwaneri’s youthful energy as a potential game-changer.

"I would start him there," Gibbs said in the interview. 

"You could have said over the last months with the results that they have had that he could have played a couple of games and see how it went. 

"Now I think it would be a good time to throw him in."

Adeyemi Adewale

Photo Credit: arsenal.com

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