ARSENAL fans are convinced they have found the “future of the club” in youngster Ethan Nwaneri after he performed an outrageous skill.
The teenage midfielder was even hailed as “better than Messi” following the Gunners’ friendly against Nurnberg on Thursday.
Nwaneri featured during the pre-season contest as Arsenal played out a 1-1 draw in Germany.
Bukayo Saka’s opener was cancelled out by a comedic Jorginho own goal to see the match end level.
Despite the result, Nwaneri caught the eye with one particular piece of skill.
After receiving the ball in his own half, the 16-year-old evaded two opposition players with a stunning turn.
He then burst into the Nurnberg half before passing to a team-mate.
Arsenal fans were left in awe of the youngster, with one tweeting: “Trust me when I say this boy is the future of Arsenal Football Club.”
Another supporter wrote: “Better than Messi.”
A third also commented: “Arteta needs to give him more game time.”
One more fan added: “So glad he’s signed the contract. This kid is gonna be the future.”
Others even claimed that Nwaneri’s performance showed he “is better” than new signing Kai Havertz.
Nwaneri made history back in September 2022 by becoming the Premier League’s youngest ever player.
He came off the bench against Brentford aged just 15 years and 181 days.
His performances in the club’s academy had garnered interest from Chelsea and Manchester City before Arsenal tied him down to a long-term deal earlier this summer.
Nwaneri has agreed scholarship terms with the club and will sign his first professional deal when he turns 17 in March.
The contract will keep Nwaneri at the Emirates Stadium until 2026.
