Ethan Nwaneri: 3 Super Eagles problems Chelle looks to fix with Arsenal lad wanted by Fulham

Arsenal midfielder Ethan Nwaneri could leave the Gunners permanently this summer following the end of his loan spell at Olympique Marseille, Afrik-Foot reports.

Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund and English club Fulham are leading the race to sign the 19-year-old if he leaves the Emirates, according to reports.

Dortmund remain interested in a permanent move after tracking the teenager for more than a year, while Fulham see him as a player who could enjoy regular Premier League football at Craven Cottage. Everton, Juventus, Chelsea, AC Milan and RB Leipzig have also made enquiries as Arsenal continue to assess his future during pre-season under Mikel Arteta.

Although Nwaneri’s club future remains uncertain following a difficult six-month loan spell at Marseille, where he made only 11 appearances, another battle is taking place away from the transfer market.

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle is still determined to convince the England youth international to represent Nigeria at senior level. Since taking charge, Chelle has travelled across Europe to meet dual-nationality players as part of his rebuilding project following Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Arsenal academy graduate is viewed as one of the brightest talents who could shape the next generation of the Super Eagles. Here are three major problems Chelle believes Nwaneri can help solve.

Ending Nigeria’s long search for a creative No. 10

One of the biggest concerns throughout Nigeria’s recent international campaigns has been the lack of creativity in midfield, especially in the final third. The Super Eagles have relied heavily on hard-working central midfielders, but they have often struggled to create enough chances for star forwards such as Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman and Akor Adams.

During the disappointing World Cup qualifying campaign, Nigeria frequently controlled possession but failed to unlock organised defences in crucial matches, including the costly 1-1 home draw against Zimbabwe in Uyo and another 1-1 draw away to South Africa in Bloemfontein.

Chelle believes Nwaneri could finally provide the answer. The Arsenal youngster has built his reputation on receiving the ball between the lines, beating defenders in tight spaces and creating opportunities with intelligent movement and accurate passing. Comfortable as an attacking midfielder, winger or second striker, he offers the kind of creativity Nigeria has lacked in recent years.

At Arsenal, Nwaneri contributed 11 goals and assists during the 2024-25 season before competition for places limited his playing time. Those attacking qualities are exactly what Chelle wants to add to his midfield.

Providing the perfect fit for Chelle’s attacking system

Since taking over the Super Eagles, Chelle has made it clear that he wants Nigeria to play more aggressively and dominate matches through quick attacking football. His preferred 4-3-1-2 formation depends heavily on an attacking midfielder operating behind two strikers. That player must be able to receive the ball under pressure, link midfield with attack and create chances consistently.

Nwaneri’s versatility makes him an ideal candidate for that role. Under Mikel Arteta, he has played in several attacking positions, learning how to drift into central spaces, combine with teammates and make dangerous late runs into the penalty area.

Those qualities would allow Chelle to use players like Osimhen and Adams together more effectively, with Nwaneri supplying the creativity behind them instead of forcing wide players to carry the creative burden. His technical ability and confidence in possession also fit Chelle’s desire for players who can keep the ball and break down compact defensive teams.

Becoming the face of Nigeria’s long-term rebuild

Chelle’s interest in Nwaneri goes beyond immediate results. In June 2026, the Nigeria Football Federation rewarded the Malian coach with a contract extension and expanded his responsibilities to include the Olympic Eagles, Nigeria’s Under-23 national team.

The decision formed part of a wider rebuilding plan after the Super Eagles missed out on the 2026 World Cup. Chelle has been tasked with building a younger squad capable of qualifying for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles while also preparing a stronger senior team for future Africa Cup of Nations and World Cup campaigns.

At just 19 years old, Nwaneri fits perfectly into that vision. He is young enough to play a leading role for the Olympic Eagles while gradually becoming a key figure for the senior Super Eagles over the next decade.

If Chelle succeeds in convincing the Arsenal midfielder to switch his international allegiance, Nigeria would gain not only one of Europe’s most exciting young talents but also a player capable of leading the country’s next football generation.