BREAKING NEWS: Coming live from Emirates, Arteta and arsenal legend Ian wright have wasted no time to applaud youngster after electrifying performance against Manchester united. Arsenal legend Ian wright heaped praise on Ethan Nwaneri after his performance in a friendly against Manchester United on Saturday, July 27. The youngster helped them win 2-1 at the SoFi Stadium in California. He said ” he’s the real deal this is just a pre- season and his playing like this just imagine him in the premier league he’s Better than Phil Foden and Mason Mount I see him and he reminds me of Manchester City icon David Silva”. The 16-year-old played the first half, completing 17/19 passes, creating one big chance, and providing an assist. He also won 4/4 duels and completed 1/1 dribble attempts. “Better than Phil Foden and Mason Mount” – Arsenal legend Ian wright blown away by 16-year-old’s performance against Manchester United.
### Arsenal Fans Applaud Ethan Nwaneri’s Performance in Friendly Win Over Manchester United
Arsenal fans on X (formerly Twitter) have been singing the praises of Ethan Nwaneri following his impressive performance in a friendly match against Manchester United on Saturday, July 27. The young talent played a key role in helping Arsenal secure a 2-1 victory at the SoFi Stadium in California.
#### Pre-Season Highlights
Currently on their pre-season tour in the United States, Arsenal has been making significant strides. After a penalty shootout win against Bournemouth, they faced Manchester United on Saturday. Rasmus Hojlund scored first for United in the 10th minute, but goals from Gabriel Jesus (26′) and Gabriel Martinelli (81′) led to a comeback victory for the Gunners.
#### Nwaneri’s Standout Performance
Ethan Nwaneri, just 16 years old, caught the eye of many during the match. Playing the first half, he completed 17 out of 19 passes, created a major scoring chance, and provided an assist. His defensive contributions were equally impressive, winning all four of his duels and completing a dribble attempt successfully.
Arsenal fans took to X to express their admiration for the youngster. One fan compared him to top players like Mason Mount and Phil Foden, saying, “Ethan Nwaneri is better than Phil Foden. Mason Mount, too.”
Another fan likened Nwaneri to Manchester City legend David Silva, writing, “Nwaneri is Arsenal’s David Silva. Magic left foot. Can excel in either interior. Should be having himself a successful decade plus career.”
The excitement was palpable, with comments like, “Wow wow wow,” and predictions of Nwaneri starting in the Premier League: “Nwaneri is legit gonna be in real contention to start the opening PL game btw,” and “He’s ready.”
One fan even drew parallels between Nwaneri and Liverpool’s Trey Nyoni, stating, “Trey Nyoni *handshake emoji* Ethan Nwaneri. Starboys.”
#### Mikel Arteta’s Comments
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta also acknowledged Nwaneri’s remarkable performance against Manchester United. Speaking after the game, Arteta emphasized the importance of players demonstrating their potential: “It’s always in the hands of the players, so show what you can do. Show that ambition, that determination, that quality and things will happen naturally. Tomorrow he’s going to train with us again and if he continues to play like that he’s going to play some minutes on Wednesday for sure.”
Nwaneri’s journey with Arsenal has been notable. He made his senior debut for the club in September 2022 during a 3-0 victory over Bournemouth, becoming the youngest player to do so at just 15 years old. His international performance has also been impressive, scoring three goals for England U17 in the UEFA U17 Euro in May, helping the team reach the quarter-finals.
The Gunners are set to continue their pre-season campaign with a friendly against Liverpool at the Lincoln Financial Field in Pennsylvania on July 31. Fans and pundits alike will be keen to see if Nwaneri continues to feature prominently and if he can maintain his exceptional form.
Ethan Nwaneri’s recent performances have certainly placed him in the spotlight, with both fans and the manager recognizing his potential. As Arsenal’s pre-season progresses, the young midfielder will look to capitalize on these opportunities and secure a more permanent role in the team.
