Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed his confidence in young players Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly, emphasising their readiness to play despite their young age of 17. Arteta stated, “When you see how they behave on the pitch, let them go. They are ready to go, why stop them? Just because they are 17?” He further encouraged their development and enjoyment of the game.
Arteta’s Approach to Youth Development
Arteta’s comments reflect his commitment to nurturing young talent within the club. His approach suggests a willingness to integrate promising players into the first team, allowing them to gain valuable experience and grow in confidence. This strategy aligns with Arsenal’s tradition of promoting youth players.
Recent Context
The manager’s remarks come amidst a period of challenges and decisions at Arsenal. Recently, Arteta has been dealing with Bukayo Saka’s slow recovery from injury and has been actively seeking solutions in the transfer market. Additionally, he has been vocal about refereeing decisions, notably criticising a red card given to Lewis-Skelly in a previous match.
Player Profiles
- Ethan Nwaneri: A versatile midfielder known for his technical skills and vision on the field. Nwaneri has been with Arsenal’s youth setup and is seen as a promising talent for the future.
- Myles Lewis-Skelly: A dynamic player with a strong presence in midfield, Lewis-Skelly has shown potential in both defensive and attacking roles. His recent performances have caught the attention of the first-team management.
Arteta’s endorsement of these young players highlights his belief in their potential to contribute significantly to the team’s success.