Mikel Arteta wants new signings for Arsenal's forward line - in Nwaneri, he has a player for his short-, medium- and long-term ambitions

With that in mind, it harks back to a comment made by one former Chelsea and Tottenham ace that is quite embarrassing now. With Nwaneri really starting to flourish now, there is a clear idea of what Mikel Arteta saw when handing the youngster his debut.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta heaped praise on midfielder Ethan Nwaneri after the 17-year-old produced another fine performance to help his side secure a spot in the Champions League round of 16 with a victory at Girona.

Mikel Arteta heaped praise on Arsenal youngster Ethan Nwaneri as his goal against Girona helped Arsenal secure a spot in the last 16 of the Champions League. Arnaut Danjuma had given Girona a 28th minute lead before Jorginho restored parity from the penalty spot after Thomas Partey was fouled by Arnau Martinez.

That proved to be the winner, and Nwaneri has been earning a lot of praise since. Diari de Girona branded the 17-year-old’s strike as a ‘great goal’, while Mundo Deportivo named him as Arsenal’s best player in both halves.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta heaped praise on midfielder Ethan Nwaneri after the 17-year-old produced another fine performance to help his side secure a spot in the Champions League round of 16 with a victory at Girona.

With Bukayo Saka sidelined through injury, Nwaneri has seized the opportunity to play a more prominent role in the team. His goal against Girona in the Champions League served as

Ethan Nwaneri shines as Gunners ease into Champions League last 16 - One of AC Milan, Feyenoord, Juventus or PSV Eindhoven now lie in wait for Mikel Arteta’s side

Arsenal solve one transfer issue as striker search steps up - Ethan Nwaneri has stepped up in Bukayo Saka’s absence