In his first interview since moving to France on loan, Arsenal's young star Ethan Nwaneri has dropped a significant hint about his future with the Premier League club. The England Under-21 international, who joined Marseille less than two weeks ago, has already made a strong impression with a debut goal, but his comments have sparked speculation about his long-term plans.
Nwaneri Confirms Arsenal Return but Leaves Door Open
Speaking to the press ahead of Marseille's French Cup Round of 16 tie against Stade Rennes, Nwaneri confirmed that he will rejoin Arsenal when his loan spell concludes at the end of the season. However, the attacking midfielder notably did not dismiss the possibility of a permanent move to the French side, stating: "Yes, that's true, anything is possible in football. We'll see what happens. We'll see if there's any contact. I can't tell you what will happen. We'll see when it happens."
The absence of a buy-option clause in the loan agreement has added intrigue to the situation, with Nwaneri's future remaining uncertain beyond the current campaign.
Marseille's Prestige and Personal Preparations
Nwaneri explained that Marseille's reputation and history were key factors in his decision to join the club on loan. "First of all, I think Olympique de Marseille is a very big club," he said. "The coaches, the fans, the way they play, it's extraordinary. The fans really give it their all."
He described the move as a great opportunity for his development, emphasising his eagerness to learn and enhance his skills. "I think it's a great opportunity for me. I didn't hesitate. Honestly, my answer to all of that was yes. I think that's why I came. The experience, seeing a big club like this, learning as much as possible, and being able to really add that to my skill-set at the end of the season."
Regarding his fitness, Nwaneri admitted he was not fully match-fit upon arrival but is working hard with the staff to increase his playing time. "When I came here, obviously I wasn't yet 100 per cent fit, but I'm working on it. I've also spoken with the staff and I think I'll be able to play more and more. I felt good during the last match. That's normal, of course, it's a process. There haven't been any injuries, so I feel good, honestly."
Champions League Disappointment and Team Focus
The opening days of Nwaneri's loan have been mixed, with the high of a debut goal against Lens overshadowed by Marseille's elimination from the Champions League. The club crashed out after a 3-0 defeat to Club Brugge, with Benfica's late heroics against Real Madrid sealing their fate.
Nwaneri, who watched from the stands in Belgium and was ineligible to play, expressed the team's frustration. "Obviously, the whole team was very disappointed. We wanted to move forward, to progress in the Champions League. Obviously, the way we were eliminated is frustrating. It wasn't a good feeling, but we have to react quickly. We don't really have time to dwell on it. Two or three days later, we already had to play again. It's disappointing, but we have to keep going."
Arsenal's Stance and Injury Context
Despite Mikel Merino's recent foot injury at Arsenal, the club is not expected to recall Nwaneri from his loan spell. Sources indicate that there is no recall option included in the arrangement, meaning the teenager will remain at Marseille for the duration of the season.
It is believed that Nwaneri sought advice from former Marseille loanee William Saliba and Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard before making the move, highlighting the careful consideration behind his temporary switch to Ligue 1.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Nwaneri's performances in France and how they might influence his future at Arsenal, with his latest comments suggesting that nothing is set in stone beyond the summer.
