Nwaneri on Why he Departed Arsenal for Marseille, Leaves International Future Open

When Ethan Nwaneri left Arsenal on loan in January, it was a calculated decision by one of Europe’s brightest teenage midfielders to find regular football.

After struggling for consistent minutes in the Premier League, the 18-year-old opted for a temporary move to Olympique Marseille, joining the French giants until the end of the 2025–26 season, a move he described as a no-brainer.

Just weeks into life in the south of France, it is already clear that this move could prove to be one of the most important chapters of Nwaneri’s young career.

Nwaneri made history at Arsenal as the youngest-ever Premier League debutant in September 2022 (against Brentford), but struggled to challenge the depth of experienced players in Mikel Arteta’s squad for playing minutes.

Immediate Impact at Olympique Marseille

Nwaneri wasted no time in hitting the ground running in Marseille and announced himself to the club faithful in style by scoring on his Ligue 1 debut.

In addition to his scoring debut, he has since featured in each of the club’s last three matches, and his standout qualities are gradually endearing him to fans at the Velodrome.

In an exclusive interview with R.org, Nwaneri revealed just how quickly he made up his mind to move to France.

“When I heard it, I didn’t even think,” Nwaneri told R.org. “My answer straight away was yes because I think this was a great opportunity.

“Marseille is such a massive club. The coach has his style, the players play for the fans, and you can see how good the fans are.

“You feel a responsibility that you want to please these guys.”

International Future: Nigeria, England, or France?

One of the most intriguing subplots in Nwaneri’s career remains his international future.

Born in England to a Nigerian father and English-French mother, the 18-year-old has a decision to make between three countries.

While he has represented England at youth level, he has openly acknowledged his Nigerian heritage.

When asked about former Nigerian players like Taye Taiwo and Wilson Oruma who have worn Marseille colours, Nwaneri responded; “Yes, I know. I’m Nigerian, and I am here to help the team as much as possible.”

His statement might be a coincidence as Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle was spotted at the Velodrome during Marseille’s French Cup win over Rennes this week.

Chelle was in attendance to welcome newly signed Tochukwu Nnadi, but his presence did not go unnoticed as Nwaneri’s international decision looms.

Learning Alongside Mason Greenwood

Another major influence on Nwaneri’s Marseille experience has been Mason Greenwood.

The former Manchester United forward has enjoyed a resurgence in France and currently leads the Ligue 1 scoring chart with 13 goals.

Nwaneri added that training and playing alongside Greenwood is invaluable for him.

“If you ask me what he’s like, he’s a good guy. Very humble, very down to earth,” the Arsenal loanee said.

“He’s got so much ability, so it’s great to be playing with a player like that.”

The chemistry between Greenwood and Nwaneri could yet become a key weapon for Marseille as the season enters its decisive phase.

This weekend, Marseille travels to Parc des Princes to face Paris Saint-Germain in the Classic.

Victory for third-place Marseille would cut PSG’s lead at the top of Ligue 1 to six points, while defeat would see the gap widen to 12 points after matchday 21.