After Ethan Nwaneri scored again in just his second start, Mikel Arteta affirmed that his youthful midfielder is prepared to play a significant role in the Arsenal first team.

Nwaneri’s incredible goal in a 3-0 League Cup victory at Championship Preston overshadowed Gabriel Jesus’s first goal since January and Kai Havertz’s spectacular header from halftime substitute. At 17 years and 223 days, he became the youngest player in Arsenal history to score in each of his first two starts.

The manager of Arsenal responded, “Certainly!” when asked if he was prepared to start in the Premier League as well, given that Arteta’s team will be traveling to Newcastle United next. Otherwise, he wouldn’t have played against Liverpool three days ago or tonight. He is present. Every day, he demonstrates his abilities. His teammates are constantly passing the ball. It’s a positive indicator. There is a player there.

Since Arteta chose Nwaneri to be the youngest player in Premier League history at the age of 15, he has been a part of his master plan. He is now starting to be validated in his long-term goal.

Arteta responded to the young Englishman’s goal by saying, “We’re getting used to that because he did it yesterday in training.” He is very talented, has the right mindset, the right players, and the right environment, so we must make sure that we put everything in place piece by piece. However, we have a player there!

Tommy Setford, a teenager who made his debut as a goalie, was also rejoicing. Additionally, 18-year-old Ayden Heaven entered as a substitute. Because William Saliba returned from his weekend suspension against Liverpool and Ben White missed the game due to an injury, Arteta also had the opportunity to switch up his lineup. Gabriel’s injury from that Sunday’s draw kept him out of action.