Huge Boost for Arsenal! Surprise Injury Update Ahead of Nottingham Forest Clash

Arsenal supporters have been handed a boost ahead of their upcoming Premier League clash against Nottingham Forest, as promising youngster Ethan Nwaneri is expected to be part of the squad. A report by The Standard has confirmed that despite concerns over his fitness, the 17-year-old is likely to be available for selection.

Injury Concern After West Ham Defeat

Nwaneri sparked concerns among fans when he was seen limping after being substituted during Arsenal’s recent 1-0 defeat to West Ham United at the Emirates Stadium. Given the Gunners’ already stretched squad due to injuries, fears grew that the teenager could be another casualty ahead of a crucial run of fixtures.

However, those worries have now been eased. The Standard reports that Nwaneri’s issue was nothing serious and that the substitution was merely precautionary. This means he is set to be in contention for the matchday squad when Arsenal travel to the City Ground on Wednesday night.

Nwaneri’s Growing Role in the First Team

LEICESTER, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 15: Ethan Nwaneri of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Leicester City FC and Arsenal FC at The King Power Stadium on February 15, 2025 in Leicester, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

The young midfielder has been increasingly involved in Mikel Arteta’s squad this season, with the Arsenal boss showing great faith in his abilities. Nwaneri became the youngest player to ever feature in the Premier League when he made his debut at 15 years old in 2022, and he has continued his development within the senior setup.

His technical ability and composure on the ball have earned him valuable minutes in recent matches, and with Arsenal facing a demanding schedule, he could be given more opportunities to shine in the coming weeks.

Arsenal Looking to Bounce Back

The Gunners head into their midweek fixture against Nottingham Forest looking to return to winning ways after their disappointing loss to West Ham. That defeat dealt a blow to Arsenal’s title hopes, as Liverpool widened their lead at the top of the table with a victory over Manchester City.

Despite the setback, Arteta’s men remain in second place, and a win against Nottingham Forest would help them stay in the title race. Nwaneri’s presence in the squad offers Arteta another attacking option as he looks to unlock a stubborn Forest defense.

Arteta’s Selection Headache

With injuries already affecting key players like Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli, Arteta will be relieved to have Nwaneri available. The Spaniard is likely to rotate his squad to keep players fresh during this crucial period, and the young midfielder could feature at some point against Forest.

The Gunners will need all the firepower they can get as they aim to close the gap at the top of the Premier League table. With Nwaneri available, Arsenal fans will hope that he can make an impact if called upon.

Arsenal’s clash with Nottingham Forest is set to be a must-win game, and with positive news on Nwaneri, the Gunners will head into the fixture with a slight boost in morale.