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Insider reveals Ethan Nwaneri’s thoughts on limited minutes at Arsenal this season

Originally posted on HITC | By Rosie Tudball | Last updated Oct 3, 2025 11:31 AM ET

Ethan Nwaneri has found himself under the spotlight at Arsenal, with questions swirling over his limited playing time.

Mikel Arteta left the youngster out of the squad for the trip to Newcastle, even though he had made the journey up north with the rest of the group.

It has not been an easy start for him. Nwaneri has been an unused substitute in four of Arsenal’s first nine matches this season.

Arteta does seem to be aware that Nwaneri needs more minutes and handed him a full 90 in their Carabao Cup win over Port Vale.

Ethan Nwaneri not bothered by limited role with Arsenal

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The match against Port Vale marked Nwaneri’s first appearance in the starting XI this season, raising questions about whether he might be expecting a bigger role.

Over the summer, there were rumours linking him with a move away from the club, but he made it clear that his plans were to stay in North London under Arteta.

The academy graduate again failed to come off the bench against Olympiacos, and his absence sparked some conversation on social media.

Arsenal insider Hand of Arsenal addressed those concerns on X (formerly Twitter), sharing what he knows about how Nwaneri is handling the situation.

“The player is very happy at Arsenal and focused on helping his boyhood club win. That is an absolute fact. Many games to play,” he posted.

The insider also added that Nwaneri’s family is fully behind his decision to sign a five-year contract in the summer, committing his long-term future to the club.

Despite not getting as much time as hoped early on, there is no worry from him or those around him. The club still sees plenty of promise in him.

Nwaneri’s debut season with Arsenal

Much of the talk around Nwaneri’s playing time has been driven by the exposure Arteta gave him last season.

It is easy to forget how early he is in his career. His breakthrough happened because Arsenal were short on options, not because he forced his way in.

With greater depth now available, it is no surprise Arteta cannot offer him the same opportunities as before. Established first-team players are ahead of him in the pecking order.