Arsenal is currently causing concern among its supporters

Ethan Nwaneri has caused anxiety among Arsenal supporters following his subdued display versus Slavia Prague, where he consistently lost challenges and did not fulfill Arteta’s fitness expectations.

Young talent Ethan Nwaneri was given a starting spot by coach Mikel Arteta in the Champions League match against Slavia Prague. However, his performance disappointed Arsenal fans by highlighting clear weaknesses in his ability to win duels, a key aspect that Arteta values highly.

The 18-year-old is regarded as one of the most promising products of the Hale End academy. This season, he has frequently appeared in cup matches where Arteta rotates the squad to experiment. During the game in the Czech Republic, Nwaneri was one of four changes made by the Spanish manager. Arsenal still secured a 3-0 victory thanks to a brace from Mikel Merino and a goal from Bukayo Saka.

Nevertheless, Nwaneri’s showing became a topic of debate. Supporters believe that the young player still lacks the physical strength and experience to compete at the highest level, especially in one-on-one physical confrontations. On social media, numerous fans expressed their disappointment:

“Every duel, Nwaneri loses. Maybe that’s why Arteta doesn’t use him much,” one person wrote. Another fan commented: “Nwaneri loses every physical battle; that’s why Arteta rarely plays him.”

A shift in his role this season might explain this. Instead of playing as a winger like last season, Arteta moved Nwaneri into a central midfield position to help his overall development. However, facing powerful midfielders like those from Slavia Prague exposed his weaknesses.

According to statistics from Opta, Nwaneri won only 2 out of 7 ground duels and did not win any aerial challenges, although he made 2 ball recoveries and 1 successful clearance. These figures clearly show the young player’s struggle to adapt to the intensity and physical demands of European football.

Mikel Arteta once stated: “Matches are decided by duels. If you lose there, you lose the entire game.” Therefore, Nwaneri’s difficulties in this area have caused him to lose favor with the coaching staff. The decision to substitute him in the second half for Eberechi Eze proves this point.

Still, at 18 years old, it is understandable that Nwaneri faces challenges. He has time to improve himself, especially in terms of physique and experience. Arsenal continues to trust the potential of this young player, but performances like the one against Slavia Prague serve as a reminder that the journey from promising talent to Premier League star is still long.