Younger brother of Arsenal midfielder Nwaneri nets hat-trick against Chelsea youth

Emerson Nwaneri produced a sparkling display on Saturday as Arsenal U16s defeated Chelsea 4-3 in a dramatic London derby.

The younger brother of Arsenal midfielder and Nigeria Football Federation target Ethan Nwaneri, Emerson stole the spotlight with a superb hat-trick for the Gunners' youngsters, according to respected academy insider Jeorge Bird.

A versatile midfielder who can also operate at right-back, Emerson is in his final year as a schoolboy and is expected to be offered a scholarship by Arsenal ahead of next season. 

He has already been recognised by academy coaches, having joined the U18 squad for training sessions during pre-season preparations.

The teenager also gained valuable experience in July when he featured for the U18s in a friendly against Dover Athletic’s senior side. 

Last season, he was an integral part of the U15 squad that lifted the Premier League Floodlit Cup.

Internationally, Emerson is eligible to represent Nigeria through his father, Obi Nwaneri, but appears to be leaning towards England after accepting a call-up to train with the Young Lions at U15 level.

Meanwhile, Arsenal U18s were held to a 1-1 draw by Chelsea, with 2025 Flying Eagles invitee Chizaram Ezenwata opening the scoring before Callan Hamill struck the equaliser.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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