What Nwaneri said after Arsenal's 1-0 victory over Samuel Chukwueze's AC Milan

Arsenal’s teenage sensation Ethan Nwaneri has expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance following their hard-fought 1-0 victory over Samuel Chukwueze’s AC Milan in a pre-season friendly played on Wednesday afternoon.

The 18-year-old midfielder, who enjoyed a breakthrough campaign last season, was handed a starting role and showcased his growing confidence and flair throughout the first half.

 He was eventually replaced by club captain Martin Ødegaard at the restart.

Nwaneri came close to marking the occasion with a goal after unleashing a powerful strike from the edge of the box, only to be denied by a fine save from Pietro Terracciano.

Reflecting on the game in a post-match interview with the club’s official website, Nwaneri said:

“I think it's a good start from the team, we’re ready to keep pushing and training and working hard. It was hard, it was tough, but you need to do it in pre-season to get fit, so I think it was good and I enjoyed it.”

He also expressed optimism about Arsenal’s transfer activities and the competition they bring to the squad:

“Yes, I think all the signings we've made have been brilliant and sharpening the team and making us even stronger. We've got some more back at home coming, so we're ready for them to all come and build together.”

With the 2025/26 campaign fast approaching, Nwaneri is hoping to convince manager Mikel Arteta of his readiness to play a more prominent role and continue his development at the Emirates Stadium.

Meanwhile, Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze, whose future at AC Milan remains uncertain amid transfer speculation, featured in the second half of the match. 

He replaced Belgian winger Alexis Saelemaekers on the right flank but had little impact as Milan failed to break through Arsenal’s disciplined backline.

Adeyemi Adewale

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