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Mikel Arteta has provided encouraging news for Arsenal fans on Ethan Nwaneri’s injury, hinting when the midfielder could make his return.

The Arsenal manager has revealed that the youngster could make his return in the upcoming UEFA Champions League clash against Dinamo Zagreb.

Nwaneri, sidelined for the last few weeks with a muscle injury, joined his teammates in training on Tuesday afternoon, with clips showing the team performing the ‘welcome-back’ ritual on him and Riccardo Calafiori.

Arteta reveals impact of Nwaneri’s injury on the team

Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Arteta highlighted the impact of Nwaneri’s injury on the team.

“Yes, it was a big setback because he was getting some consistency and more minutes,” Arteta told Arsenal’s official website. “We made him play in a different position, and he was doing really well, then suddenly this happens.

“It’s understandable with the load as well; it goes through the roof immediately, and this is what we have to manage.”

Nwaneri’s absence happened at a crucial time for the Gunners, who had already lost star winger Bukayo Saka to a long-term injury. 

Nwaneri’s remarkable rise

The Super Eagles-eligible midfielder has been a revelation, building on his already impressive feat as a teenager.

In September 2022, he became the youngest player to debut in the Premier League at just 15 years and 181 days old during Arsenal’s 3-0 victory over Brentford. 

This season, he etched his name in the history books again, becoming the first Arsenal player to net more than one Premier League goal before turning 18. 

His latest strike came in the Gunners’ 1-1 draw against Brighton & Hove Albion when he scored at just 17 years and 289 days old, which was when he picked up the muscle injury.

Now on the verge of a return, Nwaneri’s comeback could prove crucial as Arsenal aim to secure a Champions League knockout place.

The midfielder is still undecided on where his international future lies, as earlier revealed by Pulse Sports.