Pep Guardiola has hinted that he wants a favor in return from Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta, claiming it’s time for Arteta to repay him. Guardiola suggests that since he once allowed two of his top players to join Arsenal to support Arteta’s top-four ambitions, Arteta should now reciprocate by allowing him to strengthen Manchester City’s squad. Guardiola has reportedly identified two key Arsenal players he wants in the January transfer window, expressing his determination to keep Liverpool from claiming the league title.
Meanwhile, Manchester City is leading the pursuit of Arsenal’s rising star, Ethan Nwaneri, a 16-year-old standout from Arsenal’s Hale End Academy. Nwaneri’s talent has impressed many, drawing comparisons to previous Hale End graduates like Bukayo Saka, Emile Smith Rowe, and Folarin Balogun. With six goals and four assists in 26 games across Arsenal’s Under-18 and Under-21 teams, Nwaneri’s future has attracted the attention of top clubs.
City, known for nurturing young players such as Phil Foden, Rico Lewis, and Romeo Lavia, is keen on signing Nwaneri, potentially edging out other interested clubs like Chelsea. Since Nwaneri cannot sign professional terms with Arsenal until he turns 17, Manchester City sees an opportunity to bring him into their own youth setup.
Nwaneri’s early debut for Arsenal at just 15 years and 181 days old showcased his potential, but he has not appeared for the first team since, fueling speculation about his long-term future at the club. Jack Wilshere, Arsenal’s Under-18 coach, has praised Nwaneri as “exceptional,” and the versatile young player’s ability to play in multiple forward positions only adds to his appeal.
If Nwaneri does leave, it would add to the list of promising youngsters departing Arsenal, following Charlie Patino’s decision to seek regular senior football elsewhere. This trend could push Arsenal to review its approach to keeping its young talents, offering clear pathways to first-team opportunities.
With the summer transfer window approaching, Nwaneri’s choice of club will be one to watch, as both fans and coaches hope he reaches his full potential, wherever he ends up.
