Arteta urges Nwaneri to 'swim with the sharks' in Marseille loan spell

Mikel Arteta believes Ethan Nwaneri's loan switch to Marseille, confirmed on Friday, will define the future of the 18-year-old talent.

The youngster has moved to the French powerhouse for the rest of the season, following limited opportunities with the team topping the Premier League and Champions League tables.

Last term, he netted nine goals in a standout year, which led to a fresh five-year contract at the Emirates Stadium.

However, Nwaneri failed to make a single Premier League start this campaign before heading to southern France.

"Our promising youngsters require game time, and Ethan simply was not receiving sufficient chances," Arteta explained.

"It involves overcoming the anxiety and uncertainty of leaving a familiar and secure environment.

"Ultimately, players must dive into the deep end amid an electric football setting, and this will elevate him tremendously."

Arteta highlighted the beneficial loan of William Saliba at Marseille before he became a cornerstone of Arsenal's backline, along with Roberto De Zerbi's coaching influence, as key factors in choosing Nwaneri's destination.

"Our priority is to avoid stunting his progress, given his exceptional ability. Football is his passion and entire world," Arteta continued.

"Considering every possibility, and drawing from Saliba's positive stint in Marseille plus De Zerbi's expertise in nurturing young players and his bold tactical approach, this promises to be an outstanding chapter for Ethan."

Arsenal aim to edge closer to securing their first Premier League title in 22 years when they host Manchester United at the Emirates on Sunday.

Arteta faces a pleasant selection headache for the forward position, with both Gabriel Jesus and Viktor Gyokeres finding the net in a 3-1 Champions League victory over Inter Milan on Tuesday.

Kai Havertz has been sidelined by injury for much of the season but is now fit to feature, though the German star is not quite prepared to lead the line yet.

"We have anticipated this moment," Arteta remarked about regaining all three strikers.

"Given the packed schedule ahead, each will get their chances and playing minutes, making it fantastic to have them available once more and performing well."