“Creator of final ball” – Arsene Wenger compares Nwaneri to Fabregas

By Wale Mustapha

Former Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger has drawn a comparison between Nigerian-born winger Ethan Nwaneri and the club’s legendary former captain, Cesc Fàbregas.

At just 17 years old, Nwaneri has emerged as one of Arsenal’s standout young talents this season, earning recognition as one of the brightest prospects in European football.

His impressive performance in Arsenal’s 2-0 victory over Leicester City at the King Power Stadium further cemented his growing reputation.

Wenger, who guided Arsenal through their golden years—including the Invincibles season—hailed Nwaneri as a “creator and special talent,” drawing parallels to a young Fàbregas.

“Nwaneri is more a creator of the final ball through his dribbling and the quality of his passes,” Wenger said.

“Fàbregas was very strong mentally, but this boy looks like he is as well. When I look at him and his maturity, it’s difficult for me to think that he’s 17 years old.”