FORMER Arsenal prodigy Ethan Nwaneri has spoken candidly about his Nigerian heritage, reaffirming a deep personal connection to the country following his loan move to French Ligue 1 giants Olympique Marseille.
Nwaneri, an 18-year-old attacking midfielder, joined Marseille during the winter transfer window from Arsenal in search of regular first-team football, after finding limited opportunities at the Emirates Stadium despite his obvious talent and early promise.
Since arriving in France, the highly rated youngster has begun to settle quickly, making two appearances for the former European champions and already opening his goal account, an encouraging start that has further raised his profile on the continental stage.
Born in England to a Nigerian father and an English-French mother, Nwaneri is eligible to represent three nations at international level. While he has previously featured for England’s youth teams, the teenager has never hidden his pride in his Nigerian roots, a sentiment he once again reinforced while speaking to the media in France.
During an interview with R.org, Nwaneri was asked about former Super Eagles stars Taye Taiwo and Wilson Oruma, both of whom enjoyed successful and memorable spells at Marseille. His response was brief but emphatic.
“Yes, I know. I’m Nigerian, and I am here to help the team as much as possible,” Nwaneri said.
The statement has further fuelled speculation around his international future, especially amid growing interest from Nigerian football stakeholders keen to see the gifted midfielder don the green and white of the Super Eagles in the years ahead.
Attention around Nwaneri intensified this week after Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, was spotted at the Stade Vélodrome during Marseille’s French Cup victory over Rennes.
Although Chelle was in attendance primarily to welcome newly signed Nigerian defender Tochukwu Nnadi, his presence did not go unnoticed, particularly given Nwaneri’s eligibility and rising influence at the club.
Football observers believe the teenager’s performances in France could play a decisive role in shaping his long-term international allegiance, especially as Nigeria continues to scout dual-eligible talents across Europe.
Nwaneri is expected to return to Arsenal at the end of his loan spell in June, with his progress at Marseille likely to influence his future at club level as well as any eventual decision regarding his senior international career.
For now, the talented midfielder appears focused on making his mark in France, while keeping his Nigerian identity firmly at the heart of his journey.
