Ethan Nwaneri joins Borussia Dortmund on loan to continue Arsenal development

Ethan Nwaneri says Borussia Dortmund’s record of developing young players was central to his decision to leave Arsenal on loan for the season.

The highly rated 19-year-old attacking midfielder completed his move to the Bundesliga club on 1 September in a straight season-long loan, with no option or obligation for Dortmund to buy him.

Nwaneri remains an important part of Arsenal’s long-term plans and is contracted to the Gunners until 2030. The England Under-21 international made Premier League history in 2022, becoming the youngest player to appear in the competition at the age of 15 years and 181 days.

However, the prospect of continuing his development in Germany persuaded him that a temporary move was the right decision.

“As soon as I heard about BVB’s interest and we had a meeting, everything moved very quickly,” Nwaneri said.

“Within just a few hours, there were advanced talks going on behind the scenes. So, as soon as I found out they were interested, I was ready to make the move.”

Dortmund’s reputation for giving young players opportunities was a major attraction, alongside the club’s supporters and stadium.

“The fans, of course. Everyone’s heard of them. That crazy stadium, with its history,” he said.

“But also the players who’ve been here. Players who made a name for themselves here and then continued to develop elsewhere.”

Nwaneri said he believes the move can help him grow both on and off the pitch, pointing to the number of players who have developed at Dortmund before progressing elsewhere.

“They all grew here as people and as men. I think that’s something great that sets our club apart,” he added.

Dortmund head coach Niko Kovac acted quickly to involve Nwaneri in first-team training after new signing Giannis Konstantelias suffered a serious knee injury. The setback increased the club’s need for attacking reinforcements.

The teenager also received support from a familiar figure before finalising the transfer. Dortmund midfielder Jobe Bellingham, his England Under-21 team-mate, encouraged him to move to the Bundesliga side.

“I’ve spoken with Jobe over the last few days. He asked, ‘What’s going on with you?’ And I told him I couldn’t say for sure yet either,” Nwaneri said.

“But we talked a lot. And he kept saying the whole time that I should come to BVB. I’m glad we’ll be playing side by side now.”

Although Nwaneri will spend the season in Germany, Arsenal have retained control of his long-term future. The agreement includes a recall clause allowing the north London club to bring him back from 1 January 2027.

That provision gives Arsenal additional flexibility as they manage their attacking options while continuing to view Nwaneri as part of their plans for the years ahead.

Nwaneri will now aim to establish himself in Germany, with Dortmund’s next Bundesliga match against Hoffenheim scheduled for Saturday at the SNP Arena in Sinsheim.