Mikel Arteta has reassured Arsenal fans that teenage sensation Ethan Nwaneri is not facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines despite limping off late in their 1-0 defeat to West Ham. The 17-year-old has been in impressive form since returning from injury in January, even delivering a standout performance against Leicester City just two weeks ago.
With Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli still sidelined, Nwaneri had been expected to play a bigger role for the team. However, he struggled to make an impact in the disappointing loss to the Hammers, raising concerns when he was forced off with just seven minutes left.
Despite the worrying sight, Arteta has played down any serious injury concerns. The Arsenal boss confirmed that Nwaneri was only experiencing cramping, a result of his increased workload in recent weeks.
Injury Woes and Squad Updates
Arsenal’s injury troubles continue to be a major challenge. While Nwaneri is expected to recover in time for their upcoming clash against Nottingham Forest, Arteta provided an update on other sidelined stars.
Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli, both crucial attacking assets, are progressing well in their recoveries but remain unavailable for selection. Adding to the squad’s difficulties, Myles Lewis-Skelly’s upcoming suspension has further stretched Arteta’s options.
However, there was a positive development for the Gunners, as Ben White made his return after a long injury layoff. The versatile defender, who had been out for over three months following knee surgery, came off the bench last weekend to make his long-awaited comeback.
Arteta on Ben White’s Return
The return of Ben White is a major boost for Arteta, particularly with the defensive stability he provides on the right flank. The Arsenal boss emphasized White’s importance to the team, especially in combination with Saka and Martin Odegaard, a trio that has yet to play together this season due to injuries.
“He is a player that has given us something very special, especially in that right unit,” Arteta said. “It is great to have him back—more options, his energy, the way he is around the team. He certainly has been missed.”
Arsenal’s Premier League Title Hopes
Following Liverpool’s win over Manchester City, the gap at the top of the Premier League table has widened to 11 points. Despite the setback, Arteta remains determined not to concede the title race.
“If not, I will go home,” he declared when asked about Arsenal’s chances. “Mathematically, it is possible. Three days ago, we were close to closing the gap. Suddenly, it is a game and a half away. It doesn’t matter—we have to keep going.”
Arteta acknowledged the difficulty of the challenge but believes that if Arsenal were to pull off a title win under these circumstances, it would be an unprecedented achievement in Premier League history.
“The difficulty is higher than three days ago, but if you are going to win the Premier League, you have to do something special,” he added.
With a crucial match against Nottingham Forest on the horizon, Arsenal must refocus quickly if they hope to keep their title dreams alive.
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