Premier League legend reveals the big mistake that could cost Arteta and Arsenal the title

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has come under scrutiny from Premier League legend Rio Ferdinand, who believes the Spaniard made a key tactical error earlier this season by not giving young talent Ethan Nwaneri more playing time. Ferdinand, speaking candidly about Arsenal’s title challenge, suggested that Arteta’s reluctance to trust Nwaneri during Martin Ødegaard’s injury spell may have cost the Gunners valuable points in the race for the Premier League crown.

“Arsenal could be nearer to winning the league and closer to Liverpool if your manager played Nwaneri when Ødegaard was injured,” Ferdinand said. “What he is doing… he is cooking defenders, he is cooking teams.”

GIRONA, SPAIN – JANUARY 29: Ethan Nwaneri applauds the fans after his substitution during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD8 match between Girona FC and Arsenal FC at Montilivi Stadium on January 29, 2025 in Girona, Spain. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

The former Manchester United defender praised the 17-year-old Nwaneri’s fearless approach and technical ability, qualities that have stood out whenever he has featured this season. Nwaneri’s confidence on the ball and eye for a pass have drawn comparisons to some of the league’s best playmakers, despite his young age.

Ferdinand doubled down on his belief that Arteta missed a golden opportunity to inject creativity into Arsenal’s midfield when their captain was sidelined with injury earlier in the campaign. “I think if Nwaneri came in you would have got more points,” Ferdinand continued. “It’s easy to say in hindsight but I was saying it at the time. Chuck him in and just see, what’s the worst that can happen?”

Ødegaard’s absence coincided with a dip in Arsenal’s attacking output, as the team struggled to break down stubborn defences and dropped crucial points in the title race. Nwaneri, despite his inexperience, had shown flashes of brilliance when given opportunities, but Arteta largely opted for more experienced players to navigate that tricky period.

LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 02: Martin Odegaard of Arsenal gestures during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Manchester City FC at Emirates Stadium on February 02, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

Ferdinand believes that bold decisions often pay off in football, especially when it comes to nurturing young talent. “Because you were running up dead alleys at the time and not getting results,” he explained. “Put him in! Ødegaard was gone.”

While Arteta has been praised for developing Arsenal’s youthful core, including Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and William Saliba, Ferdinand’s comments raise questions about whether the manager is cautious when it comes to taking risks with emerging talent.

As the title race intensifies, Arsenal currently sit second with 53 points after 25 matches, trailing leaders Liverpool, who recently dropped points against Everton. The Gunners still have a realistic shot at lifting the trophy, but every decision will come under the microscope as the season progresses.

Whether Arteta regrets his approach with Nwaneri remains to be seen. The teenager’s performances this season have certainly made a case for increased involvement, especially if injuries strike again or if Arsenal need fresh impetus during crucial matches.

For now, the debate will continue: was Arteta too cautious with Nwaneri, or was he simply protecting the youngster from the pressures of a title run-in? Only time will tell if the Arsenal manager’s strategy ultimately proves right or if Ferdinand’s words come back to haunt him.