Ethan Nwaneri, Arsenal’s teenage sensation carved his name into the history books during the Gunners’ dominant 7-1 victory over PSV Eindhoven in the first leg of the 2025 UEFA Champions League Round of 16.
At just 17 years and 346 days old, Nwaneri became the second-youngest Arsenal player to feature in a Champions League knockout match, following club legend Cesc Fàbregas.
He also became the third-youngest player to score in a Champions League knockout tie, joining an exclusive list that includes Bojan Krkić and Jude Bellingham.
His historic moment came in the 21st minute when he combined with fellow Hale End Academy product, 18-year-old Myles Lewis-Skelly, to net a stunning goal that put Arsenal 2-0 up.
The assist from Lewis-Skelly, coupled with Nwaneri’s composed finish, highlighted the growing chemistry between the young duo.
Arsenal cruised to an emphatic 7-1 win, all but sealing their place in the quarter-finals, where they could face either Real Madrid or Atlético Madrid.
Captain Martin Ødegaard praised the impact of the Hale End graduates, emphasizing their potential in the squad.
The Gunners’ other scorers included Jurrien Timber, Mikel Merino, Ødegaard (twice), Leandro Trossard, and Riccardo Calafiori, while Noa Lang netted a consolation for PSV.
Nwaneri’s rise comes at a crucial time for Arsenal, stepping up during an injury crisis that has sidelined key attackers like Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Jesus.
His maturity and skill have earned praise from Mikel Arteta, who has drawn comparisons between him and former Arsenal prodigy Jack Wilshere.
Super Eagles Future Still Open?
Despite his rapid progress with England’s youth teams, Nwaneri remains eligible to represent Nigeria at the senior level, as he has yet to make a competitive appearance for the Three Lions.
The 17-year-old has played for England’s U16, U17, and U19 sides, even captaining the Young Lions in multiple matches in 2024.
However, he is provisionally cap-tied to England after featuring in a European U17 Championship qualifier against Lithuania in October 2022. If he decides to switch allegiance to Nigeria, he would need to file a one-time switch with FIFA.
With Nigeria actively scouting young talents of Nigerian descent across Europe, the NFF must act fast if they hope to convince Nwaneri to commit to the Super Eagles. Given his rapid development, waiting too long could see England secure him permanently.
