De Zerbi reveals plans for "very high potential player" Nwaneri as he leaves Arsenal

De Zerbi reveals plans for "very high potential player" Nwaneri as he leaves Arsenal

Roberto De Zerbi has suggested Ethan Nwaneri will go straight into the Marseille squad after joining from Arsenal on loan.

The 18-year-old touched down in Marseille on Wednesday as he prepares to leave North London and join Ligue 1 giants Maresille alongside Feyenoord midfielder Quinten Timber.

Nwaneri follows in the footsteps of Arsenal defender William Saliba who went out on loan to OGC Nice, and then at Olympique de Marseille before forging his place in the Gunners squad.

De Zerbi revealed his love for the teenager this week and spoke on when he could be available to the side.

“As far as Timber and Nwaneri, they are two strong players, and I’m really happy to have them in the squad,” the Italian coach declared.

“They could be ready as early as Saturday. These are two quality players, for sure. Timber also has experience and Nwaneri has talent, he is a very high potential player.”

The England Under-21 international has said yes to move to the Stade Velodrome despite interest from Crystal Palace and Bournemouth and clearly believes Marseille is the right place for him to develop as a player.

Arsenal have trusted Roberto De Zerbi and Marseille with his development and talks between manager Mikel Arteta and De Zerbi are said to be crucial to Nwaneri’s move as he seeks minutes on the pitch in France.