Arsenal midfielder Nwaneri in contention to make injury return against Dinamo Zagreb

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has provided a welcome update on the fitness of teenage sensation Ethan Nwaneri, as the midfielder looks to be in contention to make his return from injury in the Gunners' upcoming UEFA Champions League clash against Dinamo Zagreb.

Nwaneri, who has been sidelined since early this month with a muscle injury, joined his teammates in training on Tuesday afternoon, sparking hopes that he may be available for selection for the crucial European tie.

The 17-year-old Anglo-Nigerian midfielder has been making waves with his impressive performances, which has seen him break multiple records. 

Nwaneri became the youngest player to debut in the Premier League in September 2022, coming off the bench in Arsenal's 3-0 win over Brentford at just 15 years and 181 days old.

More recently, Nwaneri made history again by becoming the first Arsenal player to score more than one Premier League goal before the age of 18. 

He achieved this feat in the Gunners' 1-1 draw against Brighton & Hove, scoring at just 17 years and 289 days old.

Nwaneri's injury setback was a significant blow to Arsenal, who had been relying on the youngster's creativity and skill in the absence of Bukayo Saka. 

However, with the midfielder now closing in on a return to action, Arteta will be hoping that Nwaneri can pick up where he left off and help the Gunners secure a spot in the Champions League quarterfinals.

Speaking at the pre-match conference, Arteta acknowledged the significance of Nwaneri's injury and the impact it had on the team. 

"Yes, it was a big setback because he was getting some consistency and more minutes," Arteta said as quoted on the Arsenal's official website. 

"We made him play in a different position, and he was doing really well, then suddenly this happens. 

"It's understandable with the load as well, it goes through the roof immediately, and this is what we have to manage."

With Nwaneri now back in contention, it remains to the seen of the Arteta will opt to field him in the starting eleven, as a sub, or even decide to be cautious by not utilising him at all, at least until he is sure of the youngster's full recovery.

Ejim Kaycee

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