German media react to “incredible” Ethan Nwaneri debut after Borussia Dortmund move

Sent out on deadline day with interest from Germany, Ethan Nwaneri picked up rave reviews on his first appearance for Borussia Dortmund.

The writing was on the wall at the Emirates the Hale End favourite this summer. With Eberechi Eze, Martin Ødegaard and the arrival of Bruno Guimares, Mikel Arteta admitted the academy graduate “needed minutes”.

Even Myles Lewis-Skelly who edged out Martin Zubimendi to start in last season’s Champions League final was shopped around to rivals by the club through intermediaries.

Despite fears of him and even younger brother Emerson departing permanently the latter signed fresh terms on a scholarship contract that would take him to his 17th birthday alongside a professional contract that will maintain his status as a Gunner until 2030.

Meanwhile than went on to secure a deadline day switch to Germany’s yellow wall and immediately stole the headlines, forcing an own goal as Dortmund rallied from 2 goals down to win 3-2 against Hoffenheim.

Mature beyond his years, despite only having 2 training sessions under his belt he made the difference and took home a 6.4 Sofascore rating for his efforts.

German media outlet Rhur24 wrote: “Incredible! The new signing was the decisive factor in the victory on his debut! Nwaneri broke through in the penalty area in the 86th minute, fired a shot, and forced an own goal by Hajdari.

“The Arsenal loanee was thrown in at the deep end after Mane’s injury in the 32nd minute, taking over Beier’s position on the left wing. It was clear until halftime that he had only spent three days with his new team.

“The game passed him by. But in the second half, Nwaneri developed into a weapon on the counter-attack. He repeatedly set up Guirassy and Silva.”

Arsenal Left Light In Nwaneri’s Absence?

Nwaneri’s start in black and yellow will come as no surprise to Arsenal fans with many campaigning for him to stay in North London to fight for his place.

Borussia Boss Niko Kovač sang his praises with a conviction that spoke to the high expectations that have followed him throughout his career: “He could solve problems on a man-for-man basis and radiate calmness on the ball. He had that little bit of luck [on the own goal], but he worked hard for it.

We signed him because we’re convinced he has top qualities. He proved that today”.

Read more: The one that got away – How Arsenal’s deadline day drama came unglued

Perhaps one of the only players who could have effectively replaced Bukayo Saka during his injury layoff in 24/25, Nwaneri’s has long been tipped for great things.

Within the Emirates’ marble halls “a decision has been made to focus his development in midfield.” which explains loans to Marseille and now Dortmund, however fans will wonder if the squad is weaker when he is away.

Noni Madueke has flattered to deceive despite fetching 8 goals and 3 assists across all competitions last season while the left hand which was already a target for reinforcements has less bodies after Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli’s exits.

Cristos Tzolis had an impressive start to life in the capital, assisting in the Community Shield victory to cap off a pre-season with a healthy return of goal involvements but is yet to appear on the scoresheet in the opening 3 premier league games.

After missing out on high profile targets like Vinicius Jr and Julian Alvarez, a player unfazed by the big occasion and often profiting from his proclivity to shoot on sight seems like exactly the kind of profile lacking in Arsenal’s forward line.

Keeping him at arm’s length will be seen as a masterstroke if he does return a better player, but Arsenal need talent now and are reportedly ready to move in the January should an opportunity arise to tempt Eli Jr Kroupi to North London or even return again for Alvarez.