Former Arsenal forward Jeremy Aliadière has voiced his disappointment with the club’s decision to allow teenage talent Ethan Nwaneri leave on loan, insisting the move came at the wrong time for the North London side.
The 42-year-old Frenchman believes Arsenal erred by sanctioning Nwaneri’s temporary switch to Marseille until the end of the season, arguing that the youngster offers technical qualities the team is currently missing. Aliadière suggested the timing of the deal was particularly questionable, given Arsenal’s recent struggles in attack.
Nwaneri has wasted little time making an impression in France, scoring on his league debut last week in eye-catching fashion. The teenager carried the ball from midfield before unleashing a powerful long-range effort into the bottom corner, a moment that highlighted his confidence, flair and willingness to take responsibility in the final third.
Aliadière feels that this fearless attacking mindset is exactly what Arsenal have lacked in recent weeks, as their frontline continues to show signs of reduced sharpness. He questioned the logic behind letting go of such a promising player at a crucial point in the season.
Speaking to The Sun, Aliadière said, “From Arsenal’s point of view, I’m disappointed to see him go, because I truly believe that what he has is something we are currently lacking. A player who wants to move forward quickly, dribble past two or three players, and go straight for a shot, and that is exactly what we are suffering from his absence at the moment.”
He went on to praise Nwaneri’s overall profile and expressed confidence in his future at Marseille, adding, “His playing style, his speed, his strength, and most importantly, he doesn’t hesitate to face defenders. I think he will be successful with Marseille, which is a big club in France, and I have no doubt that he can shine there.”
While warning that Arsenal could come to regret the decision as the season reaches its decisive phase, Aliadière was clear that he holds no resentment toward the player himself for seeking regular football.
Explaining his stance, he said, “If I had the opportunity to give him advice before he made the decision, I would have told him exactly what to do: go on loan for six months, but to a big club, in a strong league, preferably outside of England.”
Aliadière also believes Ligue 1 could be the perfect environment for Nwaneri’s development.
“I feel that the French league might suit him better, and I think he will achieve great success there. I have no doubt about that,” he said.
