Ethan Nwaneri’s England Snub Good News for Nigeria
Nigeria’s hopes of securing Arsenal’s talented young player, Ethan Nwaneri, have been given a boost after England’s head coach, Thomas Tuchel, left the teenager out of his latest squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Tuchel, in his first selection as England manager, announced a 23-man squad for the qualifiers against Albania and Latvia. Despite strong rumours that Nwaneri could receive his first senior call-up, the 17-year-old was not included.
Nwaneri, who will turn 18 in a few days, has had a breakout season at Arsenal, scoring eight goals and providing one assist in 28 appearances across all competitions. His impressive performances had reportedly caught Tuchel’s eye ahead of the March internationals, but the German manager chose not to call him up.
Instead, Tuchel selected an experienced attacking lineup, including Harry Kane (Bayern Munich), Phil Foden (Manchester City), Marcus Rashford (Aston Villa), Jarrod Bowen (West Ham), Anthony Gordon (Newcastle), and Dominic Solanke (Tottenham Hotspur).
Had Nwaneri been included in the squad and made his debut, he would have been permanently tied to England. His omission, however, leaves the door open for Nigeria, who have long been trying to convince him to represent the Super Eagles at senior level.
Born in Enfield, North London, to Nigerian parents, Nwaneri remains eligible to play for both England and Nigeria. His father, Obi Nwaneri, is from Imo State in southeastern Nigeria and moved to the UK many years ago.
Football has always been important in the Nwaneri family. Obi played a key role in Ethan’s early football development, coaching both Ethan and his younger brother Emerson in their local park near Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium.
This hands-on coaching approach helped Ethan develop discipline, dedication, and a strong work ethic, making him one of Arsenal’s most exciting young prospects.
