Arsenal coach Arteta open to deploying Nwaneri upfront amid Havertz and Jesus injuries

Arsenal maanger Mikel Arteta has hinted that he may deploy teenager Ethan Nwaneri in a central striking role, following injuries to both Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus. 

The Gunners’ injury crisis in the attacking department has raised questions about Arteta's plans moving forward, but the manager’s trust in young players is offering a potential solution.

Havertz, who was expected to play a key role in Arsenal’s attack this season, is set to miss the remainder of the campaign due to a torn hamstring. 

Meanwhile, Gabriel Jesus is out with a long-term injury that will keep him sidelined until the end of the year. 

With two major forwards unavailable, Arteta is left with limited options up front and is considering a bold move by giving Nwaneri, a highly-rated 17-year-old, an opportunity to lead the line.

The young talent has primarily featured as an attacking midfielder or winger, but Arteta sees potential in Nwaneri playing centrally, particularly in light of the current injury situation. 

Speaking on the possibility of using Nwaneri as a striker, Arteta said at Friday's press conference, "It’s a question of when, he has the right qualities, to play out wide or centrally. We must adapt to the strengths of our players."

Arteta’s approach is clear: he is willing to experiment with his squad’s strengths and will not shy away from using Nwaneri in a more central position if it benefits the team.

Nwaneri has already shown flashes of brilliance in his limited appearances for Arsenal this season, impressing with his technical ability and composure in front of goal. 

He has a natural instinct to find space and finish with precision, skills that could be useful in a more central role. 

In previous matches, he has demonstrated an ability to cut inside from the right-wing, curling shots into the far corner—a trait that could help him adapt to a striker's position.

While the idea of thrusting a teenager into such a critical role might seem risky, Arteta has a history of trusting young players and nurturing their development. 

The injury crisis at Arsenal is undoubtedly a challenge, but it could also present an opportunity for Nwaneri to prove himself on the big stage. 

Whether or not he will be deployed as a striker remains to be seen, but Arteta’s openness to such a move demonstrates his belief in the young player’s potential to contribute in a variety of roles.

Wale Adejumo

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