In a dramatic turn of events ahead of Arsenal’s crucial Premier League showdown with Liverpool, Mikel Arteta has spoken confidently about how his side will cope without Bukayo Saka.
The 23-year-old England international, who has been one of the Gunners’ most important players this season, will not feature after picking up an injury in a recent league fixture.
Naturally, this development sparked concerns among supporters, as Saka’s influence on the right flank has been central to Arsenal’s attacking play.
However, Arteta moved quickly to reassure fans, insisting that the team is more than ready for the challenge and even revealed the player he has chosen to take Saka’s place.
The manager delivered a bold statement in his press conference, saying: “We’re not going to miss Saka that day.” His faith lies in 18-year-old academy graduate Ethan Nwaneri, a young talent who has been earning widespread attention for his rapid progression through Arsenal’s youth system.
Nwaneri has already been handed a handful of opportunities in the first team and has displayed flashes of his ability, particularly his composure and creativity in attacking areas.
Arteta’s decision to hand him such a massive responsibility against a team like Liverpool reflects the confidence he has in the teenager’s maturity and skill.
Arteta was full of praise for the youngster, saying that Nwaneri has been training exceptionally well and has proven he is ready to handle pressure at the highest level. “Ethan is ready,” the Arsenal boss declared. “He’s been training brilliantly, and he’s shown he can handle the pressure.
Liverpool is a big test, but I have no doubts he’ll step up.” These words reflect Arteta’s clear intention to not only trust the teenager but also to highlight that his inclusion is part of a calculated plan rather than a desperate solution.
Saka’s absence is, without doubt, a significant setback given his consistent goals, assists, and tireless work ethic, but Arteta’s tactical shift suggests he is ready to adapt.
Instead of replacing Saka in a like-for-like manner, he appears ready to build around Nwaneri’s versatility. In previous matches, such as one in September 2024 when Nwaneri replaced Saka late in the game, the youngster has shown he can fill in and bring a new dynamic to the team.
Fans on social media have expressed mixed reactions. Many are excited to see Nwaneri being given such a high-profile opportunity and believe it could be a breakthrough moment in his young career. Others, however, remain cautious, acknowledging the challenge of facing a Liverpool side in strong form. Regardless, this moment represents a pivotal chapter for both the player and Arsenal, as Arteta looks to prove his side can compete at the top level even without their star winger.
