Ethan Nwaneri is only 17, but his name is already echoing through the corridors of English football. Arsenal supporters have watched him evolve from a promising academy talent into a first-team player who lights up the pitch with every touch.
His recent performances, including a slicing goal in Arsenal’s 7-1 Champions League triumph over PSV Eindhoven, have sparked conversation about whether he’s ready for a senior England call-up.
His age and the pressure of knockout-stage football could have been daunting. Yet Nwaneri never looked overwhelmed. Instead, he showed composure, skill, and a quiet confidence that has earned praise from several corners of the game.
Wayne Rooney, who understands the spotlight of teenage stardom better than most, offered strong words on the young Arsenal forward’s potential.
“I think he is definitely ready for his first England call-up,” Rooney said on Amazon Prime. “Over the last couple of years with England, we’ve seen players getting an opportunity who haven’t deserved the opportunity. I think Nwaneri, he’s showing he’s got the temperament, the right attitude to be in that squad. If he keeps doing what he’s doing, he’ll have a great chance.”
Rooney’s statement is not the only ringing endorsement. Teammates have stepped forward to applaud Nwaneri’s maturity and drive.
Declan Rice, who starred in midfield during Arsenal’s emphatic win over PSV, stressed the youngster’s fearless approach, saying, “He’s 17-years-old and he’s on the biggest stage. It’s crazy! We’ve taken these youngsters under our wing and they deserve to be playing.” That kind of backing from seasoned internationals adds weight to Rooney’s endorsement.
A New Generation Rising
Nwaneri’s efforts come at a time when Arsenal’s youth-driven approach is paying off handsomely. Fellow academy graduate Myles Lewis-Skelly also made an impression in the PSV match, delivering the assist for Nwaneri’s goal and underlining the next wave of talent emerging at the club.
Mikel Arteta has found a balance between nurturing young players and demanding results, which has helped create an environment where someone like Nwaneri can thrive.
In years gone by, calling up a teenager might have been met with skepticism. Yet, modern football seems to reward those bold enough to trust young talent. Jude Bellingham‘s rise at Borussia Dortmund and Phil Foden’s journey at Manchester City offer precedents for fast-tracking gifted teenagers into the international arena. When you add Nwaneri’s name to this list, it becomes clear that England’s future is bright.
Of course, the final decision rests with the new England boss, Thomas Tuchel. But a ringing endorsement from Rooney—one of England’s greatest forwards—sends a strong message. Watching Nwaneri weave through defenders and score under Champions League pressure suggests he may be ready sooner rather than later.
It’s not just about what he does in front of goal, either. It’s also about how he carries himself in training and how seamlessly he adapts to senior-level football. By all accounts, he’s meeting every challenge head-on.
For Nwaneri, the coming months will likely bring more opportunities at Arsenal. If his current trajectory continues, he might receive the next call from the England manager. And that call couldn’t come soon enough for a 17-year-old who shows no sign of fear or hesitation.
