Robert Pirès backs English-Nigerian Ethan Nwaneri to thrive amid Marseille upheaval

Former Arsenal star Robert Pirès believes teenage midfielder Ethan Nwaneri possesses the temperament required to succeed at Olympique de Marseille despite the instability that has marked the club’s campaign in recent weeks.

Nwaneri’s move to the French giants was designed as a developmental step under highly rated coach Roberto De Zerbi.

However, the project shifted dramatically when the Italian tactician exited the club barely three weeks into the youngster’s stay, leaving Marseille navigating another period of uncertainty during a crucial phase of the season.

Pirès, who understands both the pressures of Marseille and the expectations placed on emerging talents, remains unconcerned by the situation confronting the 18-year-old.

Speaking to La Provence, the former Arsenal star dismissed fears that the volatile environment could hinder Nwaneri’s progress.

“The English aren’t afraid of anything,” he said. “I’m not worried about him.”

The World Cup winner emphasised that adaptation at Marseille rarely follows a predictable path, particularly given the intensity surrounding life at the Stade Vélodrome.

According to Pirès, Nwaneri’s natural attacking instincts and technical confidence position him well to adjust, especially under interim guidance from Habib Beye.

“He is technically very good, he takes players on, he provokes,” Pirès continued. “Over the last three months, Habib Beye can bring him something – and vice versa.”

Language and dressing-room familiarity could also ease the transition. Pirès highlighted Beye’s fluency in English as an important advantage while pointing to fellow forward Mason Greenwood as another figure capable of helping the teenager settle quickly.

Nwaneri’s introduction to French football comes at a demanding moment. Marseille remain deeply engaged in the battle for a top-three Ligue 1 finish while simultaneously chasing domestic silverware in the Coupe de France.

The teenager has featured among the substitutes in the club’s last two fixtures and is currently part of the squad’s training camp in Marbella as preparations intensify ahead of a decisive league encounter against Olympique Lyonnais this weekend.