Arsenal midfielder Ethan Nwaneri, currently on loan at Olympique de Marseille, has publicly affirmed his Nigerian nationality, a statement that draws attention to his international eligibility. The 19-year-old, who joined the French club on a season-long loan in January, made an immediate impact by scoring on his Ligue 1 debut.
Nwaneri’s confirmation of his heritage came during a discussion with journalists about former Marseille players Taye Taiwo and Wilson Oruma, both of whom represented Nigeria. “Yes, I know. I’m Nigerian, and I am here to help the team as much as possible,” Nwaneri stated to R.org. His presence at Marseille reconnects the club with a history of Nigerian players, though his immediate focus is on club performance.
Despite his Nigerian roots, Nwaneri has progressed through England’s youth system, representing the Three Lions at various age-group levels. He has yet to receive a senior call-up for England. This dual eligibility places him at the centre of a recruitment consideration for two nations, though no formal approach from either the English Football Association or the Nigeria Football Federation has been reported.
Nwaneri’s development has been closely followed since he featured for Arsenal as a teenager. His loan move to Marseille was designed to provide regular senior football, and his early displays suggest a promising adaptation to European top-flight football. For Nigeria, the Super Eagles, his profile as a technically proficient midfielder in a league renowned for developing talent aligns with their long-term planning, particularly in a position where they consistently seek depth.
The player’s statements do not indicate a decision on his international future. His priority, as he noted, is contributing to Marseille’s campaign for the remainder of the season. His performances in France will inevitably influence the strategies of both national team set-ups. For now, Nwaneri’s path is focused on club football, with his heritage ensuring continued discussion about his eventual international allegiance.
