In a surprising twist that has stirred major headlines across the football world, Manchester City manager **Pep Guardiola** has reportedly set his sights on **Ethan Nwaneri**, Arsenal’s highly-rated academy prodigy, as his **top transfer priority for the January window**.
> “This is my first time requesting a player directly from Arteta. I’ve helped him in the past with quality players, and I hope he reciprocates this gesture by giving me this special Arsenal talent. He’s the only one I want,” Guardiola was quoted as saying.
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#### **The Rising Star of Arsenal**
Ethan Nwaneri, just 16, continues to impress at Arsenal with his composure, technical brilliance, and mature decision-making on the ball. He made history in **September 2022**, debuting for the Gunners at only **15 years old**, becoming the youngest player ever to appear in a Premier League match.
His performances in the youth ranks and brief first-team cameos have already placed him among the **most promising young midfielders in England**.
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#### **Guardiola’s Admiration and City’s Vision**
Pep Guardiola has long been known for his ability to **develop young stars into world-class players**, having nurtured talents like **Phil Foden** and **Sergi Roberto** during his managerial career. His admiration for Nwaneri fits perfectly with Manchester City’s strategy of blending **youth and experience** to maintain dominance in both domestic and European competitions.
City believe Nwaneri’s **vision, creativity, and tactical intelligence** could add a new dimension to their already star-studded midfield featuring **Kevin De Bruyne**, **Bernardo Silva**, and **Foden**.
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#### **Arsenal’s Dilemma**
While Arsenal remain firm on their youth project under **Mikel Arteta**, City’s interest poses a real challenge. Losing Nwaneri would be a blow to Arsenal’s long-term rebuilding plan, especially as the Gunners have invested heavily in nurturing young homegrown talents.
However, with City’s financial power and Guardiola’s reputation for developing elite players, Arsenal could soon face a **battle to keep their brightest prospect**.
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#### **A Transfer Saga in the Making**
As the January transfer window approaches, all eyes are on whether Manchester City will make a formal offer — and if Arsenal will stand their ground.
Nwaneri’s next move could define the next phase of his young career — and possibly ignite another tense chapter in the ongoing rivalry between **Arteta and Guardiola**.
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**One thing is certain:** Ethan Nwaneri’s name is set to dominate the transfer headlines this winter as Pep Guardiola pushes hard to bring the Arsenal wonderkid to the Etihad.
