Arsenal Legend Jack Wilshere Declares Ethan Nwaneri Has Hit ‘Another Level’ of Talent

Former Arsenal midfielder and club legend Jack Wilshere has offered a glowing assessment of teenage sensation Ethan Nwaneri, insisting the 18-year-old attacking prospect has elevated his game significantly this season. Wilshere, who transitioned into coaching after his playing career, spoke publicly about Nwaneri’s rapid development, even with limited first-team opportunities under manager Mikel Arteta.

Dependable NG reports that the praise from Wilshere highlights Nwaneri’s progress since his time under the former Gunner’s tutelage at the Hale End academy. The now 18-year-old midfielder made history in 2022 when he became the Premier League’s youngest-ever player, featuring at just 15 years and 181 days old. Wilshere, an academy graduate himself, believes Nwaneri’s growing maturity and crucial versatility make him one of the most exciting talents emerging from the Arsenal ranks right now.

“Ethan has stepped up his game another level this year,” Wilshere stated. He added, “He’s incredibly versatile, so he’ll definitely be called upon at some point this season.” This flexibility is seen as a major asset, with Nwaneri capable of slotting into multiple roles across the midfield and attack. His performances, both in cameo senior appearances and during training sessions, have demonstrated his ability to seamlessly integrate into Arteta’s high-energy, possession-based football system.

The youngster’s growth comes at a crucial time for Arsenal, who are competing intensely across multiple fronts, including the UEFA Champions League and domestic cups. Wilshere is convinced that the demands of a busy campaign will inevitably create more opportunities for the prodigious talent to prove himself at the senior level. The former Arsenal star, who made 197 first-team appearances for the club, retains a deep connection to the club’s youth setup, having coached Nwaneri during a strong campaign with the U18s. The continued success of Hale End graduates like Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe underscores the pathway that Nwaneri is expected to follow, potentially becoming the next homegrown star to shine brightly on the Emirates stage.