Arsenal have confirmed scholarship deals for Emerson Nwaneri, the younger brother of senior midfielder Ethan Nwaneri, currently on loan at Olympique Marseille.
The 15-year-old attacking midfielder and occasional centre-forward has impressed across multiple youth levels at the Hale End Academy, earning recognition for his technical ability, versatility, and maturity on the pitch.
Alongside Emerson, forward Kyran Thompson, defender Angelinou Pedro, and midfielder Misha Nduka are set to join the scholarship intake next season, with Nduka having arrived from Charlton Athletic in September.
Emerson has already tasted U21 football this season, becoming the youngest player ever to start for Arsenal’s U21s at 15 years and 152 days, surpassing the record previously held by his older brother.
He has also featured for the U19s, U18s, and U16s, scoring a hat-trick in a 4-3 win over Chelsea U16s, showcasing his eye for goal and composure in tight matches.
His ability to operate in multiple positions, including right-back on occasion, has been a key factor in his rapid development. Arsenal coaching staff have repeatedly praised his passing range and tactical awareness, marking him as one of the brightest prospects in the academy.
The teenager’s performances have also earned him call-ups to England’s U15 and U16 squads, reinforcing his growing reputation on the national stage.
Earlier this week, Emerson was presented to the Emirates Stadium crowd alongside seven other youth players, receiving his matchday shirt from Per Mertesacker and Head of Academy Coaching Luke Hobbs after being called up to the UEFA Youth League squad.
He made his debut as a substitute in a 4-2 victory over Bayern Munich, further proving his readiness to compete at higher levels.
Ethan Nwaneri has praised his younger brother’s potential and highlighted their close relationship, revealing that they aspire to one day play together in the Arsenal first team.
“We’re really close, but I wouldn’t say we are that similar. He’s probably more outgoing than me – he’s the loud one,” Ethan said.
With the scholarship now secured, Emerson will continue his development at Hale End, following in his brother’s footsteps while carving out his own path toward the Gunners’ senior squad.
