Pep Guardiola has revealed that he expects Mikel Arteta to return the favor after he helped Arsenal’s top-four bid by releasing two of his best players to Arteta.
Now, Guardiola wants Arteta to release two of Arsenal’s top players to bolster Manchester City’s squad in January, as he is determined not to let Liverpool win the league.
Meanwhile, Manchester City reportedly leads the race to sign Arsenal’s 16-year-old rising star, Ethan Nwaneri, which raises questions about Arsenal’s ability to keep its talented young players.
Nwaneri, who has excelled at Arsenal’s Hale End Academy with six goals and four assists in 26 appearances for the Under-18s and Under-21s, has also attracted Chelsea’s interest.
However, as he cannot sign a professional contract with Arsenal until he turns 17, other clubs have an opportunity to step in.
Nwaneri made history as Arsenal’s youngest Premier League debutant at just 15 years and 181 days but has yet to play for the first team again.
His uncertain future, alongside the recent departure of another Arsenal talent, Charlie Patino, highlights the challenges Arsenal faces in retaining young stars.
Sources indicate that Manchester City sees Nwaneri as a top target and could offer him the same nurturing environment that produced talents like Phil Foden and Rico Lewis.
Arsenal Under-18 coach Jack Wilshere praised Nwaneri as “exceptional,” adding to his appeal as a versatile player who can operate in attacking midfield, on either wing, or as a forward.
With the summer transfer window approaching, Arsenal will need to strategize to retain their promising youth, or risk losing them to other clubs.
All eyes are now on Nwaneri’s decision, and fans hope he will continue to reach his potential, regardless of where he plays next.
