Arsenal Gabriel Martinelli’s recent comment that “no-one can replace Saka” underscores the pivotal role Bukayo Saka plays in Arsenal’s squad. As one of the best players in the world, Saka’s absence due to a hamstring injury presents a daunting challenge for the team. Arsenal’s 3-1 victory over Brentford highlighted the team’s ability to adapt but also showed how much they rely on their talismanic winger.
In the Brentford game, Arsenal’s front line rose to the occasion, with Gabriel Jesus and Martinelli scoring crucial goals alongside a strike from Mikel Merino. However, the spotlight was on 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri, who made his first Premier League start. Nwaneri, who debuted in the league as a 15-year-old two years ago, played a decisive role in Arsenal’s comeback. His pinpoint corner set up Merino’s goal, and his uncleared cross led to Martinelli’s decisive strike.
Tactical Adjustments and Arteta’s Trust in Youth
Mikel Arteta faced multiple challenges, including squad illness that ruled out key players like Kai Havertz. Despite these setbacks, Arteta’s tactical ingenuity came to the fore. In Saka’s absence earlier this season, Arteta experimented with various formations, including deploying Raheem Sterling and Gabriel Martinelli in unfamiliar roles. However, none proved as effective as the setup against Brentford, where Nwaneri excelled in Saka’s usual position.
Arteta’s decision to start Nwaneri was strategic and bold. Despite having the fewest touches in the first half, Nwaneri completed all 17 of his passes, demonstrating remarkable composure for a player of his age. His ability to adapt and perform under pressure provided Arsenal with a much-needed creative spark, earning praise from pundits and former players alike.
A Star in the Making: Nwaneri’s Potential
Ethan Nwaneri’s performance has cemented his status as one of Arsenal’s most promising young talents. TNT Sports pundit Karen Carney lauded his bravery and positivity, describing him as “a joy to watch.” Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of nurturing such talents from the academy.
Arteta acknowledged the significance of Nwaneri’s contribution, calling the 17-year-old “the best player in that position to start the game.” He noted the need for patience and careful development, adding, “We are building him.” With Saka sidelined, Nwaneri’s rise offers hope and excitement for Arsenal fans. His ability to step into the spotlight at such a young age could prove crucial as the Gunners navigate the challenges ahead in their pursuit of silverware.
By showcasing the depth and promise of their academy, Arsenal demonstrated that while no one can truly replace Saka, players like Nwaneri are ready to step up and make their mark on the Premier League.
How Arsenal’s Right-Wing Options Differ
Arsenal’s right flank has been a linchpin of their attacking strategy, primarily due to Bukayo Saka’s brilliance. The youngster Ethan Nwaneri has stepped in following Saka’s injury, and while he is not yet a perfect replacement, his performances suggest he is currently the best internal option for the Gunners.
Analyzing the touch maps from Saka’s final full Premier League match—a goalless draw against Everton—and Nwaneri’s appearance against Brentford reveals striking similarities. Nwaneri demonstrates an understanding of Arsenal’s tactical setup, seamlessly fitting into the system. However, when Gabriel Martinelli was deployed as a right-winger against Ipswich, his positioning differed significantly. As a right-footed winger, Martinelli hugged the byline more and struggled to make an impact. He failed to register a shot or create chances, and his minimal touches underscored his discomfort in the role. In contrast, back on the left against Brentford, Martinelli shone, recording four shots, creating four chances, and scoring—emphasizing the importance of players in their natural positions.
Jesus Finds Form at a Crucial Moment
While Nwaneri adapts to his new role, Gabriel Jesus has stepped up spectacularly as Arsenal’s central striker. Before Saka’s injury, Jesus managed just one goal in 20 appearances, leading to questions about his form. Since Saka’s absence, however, Jesus has netted six times in just four games, an astonishing turnaround. This recent burst accounts for 23% of his goals for the club, highlighting his extraordinary transformation.
Mikel Arteta attributes this shift to the collective mentality of the team. “It is a quality of the team to share the goals,” Arteta remarked, pointing to Jesus and Martinelli’s consistent performances in training and matches. Fans have been calling for Arsenal to sign an attacker in January, a demand amplified by Saka’s prolonged recovery timeline, potentially lasting until March. However, Arsenal’s temporary loan slots are already filled, limiting their flexibility in the transfer market.
Despite these challenges, Arsenal’s resolve has been commendable. Nwaneri’s development and Jesus’ resurgence offer hope that the Gunners can remain competitive, even in Saka’s absence. With Liverpool setting the pace at the top of the table, Arsenal must rely on their depth and adaptability to stay in the title race.
