Ethan Nwaneri's loan deal from Arsenal to Marseille is in danger of turning into 'a waste of time and a real nightmare'.
This is according to Foot MercatoWhich covers the age of 18 years today. According to the French outlet, the Arsenal youngster has work to do to prove that his move to France was worthwhile. At this point, there is no evidence that this was the case.
Nwaneri joined Marseille on loan from Arsenal on 23 January.third Attempting to secure more first-team minutes. He has had limited opportunities at Arsenal this season as they chase the Premier League title.
The loan was initially approved due to Arsenal's confidence in Roberto De Zerbi, but he left the French club soon after Nwaneri's arrival.
De Zerbi reassures Arsenal
This was the first negative point of the disastrous loan move so far. Foot Mercato reports that their adventure has turned into a 'nightmare'.
The website states that Nwaneri did not think the situation would be so difficult, especially when everything started out so positively. He showcased his talents in the 3-1 win over Lens and everything was looking bright.
Since then, he has been 'suffering from the crisis' that has engulfed the club. After this a series of disappointing demonstrations started. De Zerbi also departed, a major blow as the Italians had 'put pressure on him to bring him in' during the January transfer window.
The situation has not improved under the leadership of Habib Bey who replaced him. Last night saw another disjointed performance in the defeat to Toulouse. That game ended with the ball being sent into the stands to lose the penalty shootout. Later he was seen 'crying'.
Although Bey publicly supported him, Nwaneri suffered considerable disappointment. This was certainly another low point in the miserable loan period.
Analysis: Youth must respond
Now, with only 10 games left in Ligue 1, the Arsenal loanee must react quickly. If he doesn't do so, Foot Mercato says his loan deal risks turning into 'a waste of time and a real nightmare'.
And it's certainly hard to disagree with that notion. At 19, Nwaneri needs to play regularly, gain confidence and prepare himself for the future. None of this is happening in Marseille.
Although it was a brave act for him to go to France, it now seems foolish to choose that particular team. Hardly a week goes by in which Marseille is not involved in some form of drama.
Now Nwaneri is stuck in it, and as a result both he and Arsenal may regret approving this six-month exit.
