Ethan Nwaneri: Arsenal confirm first professional contract for record-breaking Gunners talent

Ethan Nwaneri has signed his first professional contract with Arsenal.

The midfielder shot to fame last season when he became the youngest player in Premier League history, making his debut at just 15 years and 181 days old.

Nwaneri has long been tipped for the top and he has been courted by both Chelsea and Manchester City.

The 17-year-old, however, signed scholarship terms with Arsenal last summer and he has now put pen to paper on his first ever professional contract.

The Gunners fought hard to fend off interest from Chelsea and City, mapping out Nwaneri’s future at the club and offering him lucrative terms for a player his age.

Arsenal academy manager Per Mertesacker said: “We are extremely proud of Ethan and his journey, from pre-academy to Hale End, then a seamless transition to Sobha Realty Training Centre and then making his first team debut.

(Arsenal FC)

“Ethan’s journey now continues, and we will all be there alongside him to support his development.

“Ethan has a strong ability to master the ball and dominate possession, this is what we are all about at Arsenal Football Club.

“He is someone that will thrive on and off the pitch, he is a strong young gunner and we look forward to working with him during his ongoing development in the years to come.”

Nwaneri was able to sign his first professional contract after turning 17 last week.

He follows in the footsteps of fellow academy graduate, Myles Lewis-Skelly, who signed pro terms earlier this season.

Nwaneri has predominantly been playing for Arsenal’s youth teams this season, scoring 14 goals in as many appearances.

He has been on the bench for the first team, though, and came on during a 6-0 win over West Ham in February.

Despite fighting for the title this season, Arsenal are determined to keep producing young talent and recently signed teenager defender Brayden Clarke.

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