Arsenal’s new kid on the block, Ethan Nwaneri, has left his international future wide open, as he is said to be open to playing for either Nigeria or England.

Born to a Nigerian father and an English mother, Nwaneri is eligible to play for both countries and the latest hint suggests that the 17-year-old will represent the first country that approaches him—whether England or his parent’s country, Nigeria.

“A family source close to Arsenal star Ethan Nwaneri tells me that the youngster will honour whichever country—Nigeria or England—approaches him first. What is the NFF waiting for?” UK-based Nigerian journalist, Shina Oludare posted via X.

The 17-year-old has featured for England at the youth level.

If the Nigeria Football Federation makes a move to switch his nationality, he will follow the steps of Alex Iwobi, who also chose to represent Nigeria while playing for Arsenal in 2015.

Aside from Nwaneri’s closest example, other Nigerian players that have made the switch for foreign countries include William Troost-Ekong, Ola Aina, Calvin Bassey, reigning African Player of The Year, Ademola Lookman, among others.

Nwaneri plays as an attacking midfielder or a winger and has featured prominently for Arsenal in the 2024/25 season, filling the void of the injured Bukayo Saka.