Arsenal's new striker? Mikel Arteta makes stunning claim about emerging youngster becoming Gunners' star centre forward

Mikel Arteta made a stunning claim about Ethan Nwaneri as the Arsenal boss shared his belief that the teenager could transform into a striker.

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• Nwaneri developing rapidly under Arteta
• Has been deployed as a No.8 in midfield
• Scored four goals this season

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  WHAT HAPPENED?

  Nwaneri, who has been a revelation for the Gunners this season, has primarily played as one of the team’s No. 8s in midfield but is being touted for a potential role leading the attack. The teenager’s breakout season has seen him score four goals despite playing in a deeper role, solidifying his place in Arsenal’s first-team squad, with three of them coming in the Carabao Cup.

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  WHAT ARTETA SAID

  Speaking about the promising academy graduate, Arteta expressed his belief in Nwaneri’s adaptability and stated: "Ethan can play as a right attacking midfielder, a left attacking midfielder. He can play as a right winger and there is another position I think he can develop into – No9. He has got the goal in front of him and he looks at the goal and he has a tremendous ability to put the ball in the back of the net.”

• THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Nwaneri’s first senior goals came in emphatic fashion, as he scored twice in Arsenal’s 5-1 victory over Bolton in the Carabao Cup third round. In November, the 17-year-old took another major step by scoring his first Premier League goal against Nottingham Forest, showcasing his knack for delivering the goods in crucial games.

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  WHAT NEXT FOR ARSENAL?

  Nwaneri’s rise through Arsenal’s ranks has been nothing short of extraordinary. At just 17, he is already proving to be a valuable asset for the north London side. His ability to adapt to multiple roles on the pitch, coupled with his composure in front of goal, has marked him as a player with immense potential. He is expected to feature in Arsenal's Carabao Cup quarter-final clash against Crystal Palace on Wednesday, a game where Arteta might continue to explore the youngster’s versatility.