Every Arsenal fan cannot just stop talking about the talent that Ethan Nwaneri is. We've so much been clamouring to see him more in action, but it was a bit more surprising that Arteta decided to start him against Brentford.
For one, I've always thought Arteta didn't trust him enough to start him in games, especially when Odeegard was out. I was more surprised that Arteta was willing to play him and Odeegard together. I think it's only against Inter Milan when we were trailing that we've seen them together. Was a good sight anyway.
It was a bit surprising, but not totally to see Nwaneri deployed to the right flank. I like it, as I believe Arteta realized how Martinelli was not an option on the right as I said in my last post and it obviously paid off.
Another thing Arteta got right was the call to return Partey to not just the starting lineup but back to the midfield. He's proven this season how he's pivotal to how we play. What a season he's having. I can't remember a season he's strung up this number of games together than this Really hoping he can stay fit till the end of the season.
I also liked how in some exchange of play how Martinelli and Jesus swapped positions, allowing the former to sometimes be in the striker position. I think Martinelli might want to explore the option of playing as a striker. Perhaps, that could spell good for him.
We wait to see if Arsenal will venture into the market this window to either find a temporary replacement for Saka, but that could hinder Nwaneri if Arteta plans to deploy him there more. Either way, I'm glad we're finding a way to win even without Saka. Star boy not available, maybe we've got little star in Nwaneri.