'He started a few days ago' - Arsenal coach explains Nwaneri's reduced minutes after Saka's return

Super Eagles target Ethan Nwaneri has played fewer minutes at Arsenal recently following the return to action of Bukayo Saka, who was sidelined for about three months due to a hamstring injury.

The England U21 international started the Premier League matches against Fulham and Everton but made way for the Three Lions winger in the second half, and was an unused substitute in the Champions League showdown against Real Madrid.

Since the start of the season, Nwaneri has recorded thirty-one appearances in all competitions, including fourteen starts.

Nwaneri's rise, which began with his record-breaking Premier League debut, has come with its ups and downs in minutes — a part of his growth that Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta views as being intentionally and thoughtfully managed.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference ahead of the weekend London derby against Brentford, Arteta highlighted the balance being struck between Nwaneri and fellow academy graduate Myles Lewis-Skelly.

In quotes relayed by Arsenal's official website, the Spanish coach stated: "Myles has played a lot and Ethan has played a lot. He started a few days ago against Everton away."

Arteta emphasized the importance of managing expectations but stressed that the two teenagers remain part of his plans. 

"This is the Premier League and we are talking about 17 and 18-year-olds that never played professional football playing that much football.

"I'm very happy because they deserve it and they will continue to play."

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

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