Arsenal Gem is Quickly Evolving into the Next Smith Rowe: He’ll Be Urging for an Exit Livezstream.com

He’ll be eager to leave: Arsenal talent is rapidly becoming the new Smith Rowe

It wasn’t a memorable evening for Arsenal, but they managed to clinch their place in the League Cup semi-finals on Tuesday. While it did come down to a penalty shootout, throughout the match, the leaders in the Premier League and Champions League were by far the superior side and should have secured a victory by a larger margin if their finishing had been sharper. Thus, it would be reasonable to argue that several substitutes who typically sit on the bench should now be considered for a starting role this weekend.

However, one obvious exclusion from the squad stood out, someone who seemingly needs to depart Arsenal to avoid becoming the next Emile Smith Rowe.

Which Arsenal players have put themselves in contention?

Beginning with the defense, if Piero Hincapie is ruled out for the weekend, Myles Lewis-Skelly undoubtedly deserves to retain his position in the lineup.

While there were a few instances where he misplaced the ball, overall, the Hale End product was composed, confident, and comfortable on the ball, and, most crucially, he showcased the passing and dribbling skills that set him apart as a phenomenal player. Moving to the center of the pitch, Mikel Arteta rewarded Christian Norgaard with a rare start, and the Danish international exceeded expectations.

The former Brentford captain completed the full 101 minutes, and while he might not possess the flair of a Martin Zubimendi or the explosiveness of a Declan Rice, he imparted a genuine sense of composure to the midfield. For example, he accumulated 87 touches, triumphed in three of four ground duels, made three clearances, won three of five aerial duels, reclaimed the ball eight times, and wasn’t dribbled past.

Finally, after a lackluster start in recent weeks, Gabriel Martinelli reminded everyone of his potential against Crystal Palace, looking like the winger who made waves in the 22/23 season. The former Ituano talent had Jaydee Canvot in trouble during the first half, and had it not been for the injury he sustained towards the end of the first 45, he could have remained just as threatening in the second half.

In just 59 minutes of play, the Brazilian managed three successful dribbles, created two significant chances, provided five key passes, and won four of seven ground duels. However, despite Arteta giving various players an opportunity to showcase their abilities against Palace, he excluded someone who might be on the verge of becoming the club’s next Smith Rowe.

The Arsenal player at risk of becoming the new Smith Rowe

When Smith Rowe was initially breaking into Arsenal’s first team, there was immense hope and anticipation that, alongside Bukayo Saka, he would emerge as one of the club’s primary figures in the future.

In fact, during his standout season for the club in 21/22, he amassed an impressive 11 goals and two assists in 37 matches. However, injuries hindered his ability to make a significant contribution to the team in the subsequent two seasons, and by the time he was finally fit, the squad had progressed, competing for the title without him.

Eventually, after it became evident that he would not play a pivotal role in the team, he was transferred to Fulham. Now, while the situation isn’t destined to replicate itself, and we’re nowhere near that point, it’s easy to envision Ethan Nwaneri heading down a similar trajectory.

After all, the “phenomenal” Hale End talent, termed so by former pro Stephen Warnock, was a vital part of the squad last season, netting nine goals and contributing two assists in 37 appearances, but he’s struggled to find playing time this season.

Overall, the 18-year-old has been on the pitch for merely 446 minutes of first-team football this season, spread over 11 matches, out of which only three were starts.

Nwaneri in 24/25

Thus, with it clear that he won’t be getting ample playing time as the season moves forward, it would likely be in the best interest of all involved for the teenage prodigy to seek a move in January. Now, before anyone reacts negatively, the suggestion isn’t a permanent transfer but a short-term loan to a team where he will receive consistent and necessary minutes.

This approach would greatly facilitate the young player’s development and, ideally, lead to increased appearances at the Emirates next season, providing him with more opportunities to realize his tremendous potential. Ultimately, if Arteta isn’t inclined to select Nwaneri this season, Arsenal should consider loaning him out, even if it’s to prevent him from becoming the next Smith Rowe.

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Published: 2025-12-24 20:40:00

source: www.footballfancast.com