Marseille have agreed a loan deal for Arsenal teenager Ethan Nwaneri, with the 18 year old set for Ligue 1 minutes to aid his development.
Marseille have agreed a deal with Arsenal to sign Ethan Nwaneri on loan until the end of the season. The move marks a shift in Arsenal’s stance after initially preferring to keep the teenager in north London. Both clubs believe regular minutes of football will accelerate his development. The agreement does not include an option to buy, underlining Arsenal’s long-term plans for the player.
Nwaneri is expected to travel to France shortly to complete formalities. Marseille will cover his salary during the loan spell. Arsenal view the move as a short-term solution rather than a separation. The focus remains on game time at senior level.
The 18-year-old has made 12 appearances for Arsenal this season across all competitions. He has started four matches but none in the Premier League. His only goal arrived in the Carabao Cup. While trusted in rotation, consistent opportunities have been difficult to secure.
Competition in attacking areas has increased significantly this season. Summer arrivals Noni Madueke and Eberechi Eze have narrowed available pathways. Bukayo Saka remains untouchable on the right flank. Martin Odegaard continues to anchor the central creative role.
Arsenal are chasing success on multiple fronts this season. They sit seven points clear at the top of the Premier League. The Gunners also boast a perfect Champions League record so far. They hold an advantage in the Carabao Cup semifinal against Chelsea.
Mikel Arteta has leaned heavily on experience in key positions. New signings have also been prioritised to maintain momentum. That has left little room for developmental minutes. Nwaneri’s expectations have risen after regular involvement last season where he made 37 appearances across all competitions, scoring four goals and providing two assists.
Marseille’s interest has been building throughout January. Roberto De Zerbi is seeking a creative number 10 to add variety. His possession-based system is viewed as a strong fit for Nwaneri’s profile. The chance to play in Ligue 1 and the Champions League also appealed.
The club’s recent success with players coming in from the Premier League strengthened their case. Mason Greenwood has made an immediate impact since arriving. Marseille believe Nwaneri can offer similar technical quality between the lines. The Orange Velodrome presents a demanding but valuable environment.
Nwaneri signed a new Arsenal contract last summer running until 2030. The club remains confident in his long-term ceiling. Internally, the loan is viewed as a controlled step rather than a risk. Arsenal have used Ligue 1 successfully for development before.
William Saliba followed a similar route with loans in France. He returned as a first team regular and defensive leader. Arsenal hope Nwaneri can benefit in the same way. Exposure to physical senior football is the priority.
Nwaneri could be available for Marseille within days if paperwork is completed quickly. Marseille continue their Ligue 1 campaign when they host league leaders RC Lens before returning to European commitments with an away fixture to Club Brugge to end their league phase campaign. Arsenal will monitor his minutes closely from afar. A return to north London is planned for the summer with clearer pathways expected.
