Transfer: Arsenal Star Set To Leave Mikel Arteta’s Squad After Community Shield Disappointment

Arsenal youngster Ethan Nwaneri is reportedly eager to leave the club before the end of the summer transfer window after being left out of the squad for Sunday’s Community Shield clash against Manchester City.

According to Metro, the 19-year-old is unhappy with his current situation and is considering a move away from Arsenal.

Nwaneri has already been linked with an exit this summer after spending the second half of last season on loan at Marseille.

Despite a difficult 2025/26 campaign, the midfielder remains highly rated and is considered one of the promising young talents in European football.

Nwaneri made history in 2022 when he became the youngest player to appear in a Premier League match after making his debut for Arsenal.

He later established himself as a regular member of Mikel Arteta’s first-team squad during the 2024/25 season.

That campaign was particularly impressive, as Nwaneri made 37 appearances for his boyhood club and was nominated for the PFA Young Player of the Year award. He also signed a new long-term contract with Arsenal.

However, his progress slowed down last season. He made just six Premier League appearances before being sent on loan to Marseille in January.

Arsenal hoped the loan spell would help Nwaneri gain valuable experience and continue his development, but the move did not go as planned.

The teenager made only nine appearances for the French club before returning to Arsenal.

Despite his disappointing spell in France, Arteta believes the experience helped Nwaneri mature as a player and as a person.

“He returned looking like a different man,” Arteta said.

“On the pitch, he didn’t [perform] because a lot transpired in Marseille,” Arteta remarked after Arsenal’s 4-1 pre-season victory over Girona.

“However, when you stand in front of him, you can sense the maturity, and he appears to be a different individual.

“The experience, on paper, wasn’t ideal, but I believe he underwent something that will significantly aid his career,” Arteta added.

Before the Community Shield, Arteta also admitted that Nwaneri could still leave Arsenal before the transfer window closes.

ALSO READ

• Community Shield: Why Arsenal, Man City Won’t Get Any Prize Money
• Arteta Rebuilds Arsenal After Champions League Final Heartbreak

“I want him to remain at the club. However, we must consider the medium and long-term implications,” Arteta stated.