Arsenal Wonderkid Ethan Nwaneri Signs First Professional Contract, Commits to Club. Highly-rated Arsenal midfielder Ethan Nwaneri, who recently turned 17, has signed his first professional contract with the club. The deal, which is believed to be between two and three years, puts an end to speculation about potential moves to Premier League rivals Manchester City and Chelsea.

Nwaneri, a shining talent in Arsenal’s Hale End academy system, has already made two appearances in the Premier League under manager Mikel Arteta. Talks are reportedly underway for a further extension to be signed when Nwaneri turns 18.

While the details of Nwaneri’s new wages remain undisclosed, fellow academy graduates Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe were reported to have earned around £3,000 per week when they signed their first professional contracts.

In September 2022, Nwaneri made Premier League history by becoming the youngest player ever to feature in an English top-flight match at the age of 15 years and 181 days. He came off the bench in a 3-0 victory against Brentford.

Arteta has provided the teenager with additional opportunities in the Premier League this season, including a substitute appearance in Arsenal’s 6-0 win over West Ham in February.

Expressing his joy at committing to his boyhood club, Nwaneri said, “It’s a proud moment for me and my family to finally be here. I’m ready to keep working. This is my family, and it feels like home here.”

Nwaneri also expressed gratitude to the coaching staff at Arsenal for their support in his development. Academy manager Per Mertesacker praised Nwaneri’s ability to control the ball and dominate possession, highlighting his alignment with Arsenal’s style of play.

With interest from Manchester City and Chelsea, Arteta played an active role in the contract negotiations to secure Nwaneri’s future at the club. The young midfielder has drawn comparisons to notable Arsenal talents such as Jack Wilshere, Phil Foden, and current captain Martin Odegaard for his ball skills.

Nwaneri’s performances in the academy this season have been impressive, with 14 goals in 14 appearances. Arsenal fans will undoubtedly be excited to see his continued growth and contributions to the club in the coming years.