After his side’s Carabao Cup fourth-round 2-0 win over Leeds United, Mikel Arteta was asked a few questions over Eddie Nketiah’s future. As ever with questions over player’s futures and contracts, the response was uncertain. Not much can be given away in these situations, yet what was clear is that the Spaniard believes Nketiah has a future at the club.
Arteta Keen on Nketiah Staying at Arsenal
Nketiah Firing for the Gunners Despite Contract Saga
‘Super Sub’ Calum Chambers put Arsenal in front last night just 25 seconds after replacing Benjamin White. It was Hale End graduate Eddie Nketiah who sealed the victory for the Gunners. The 22-year old pounced on an under cooked header back to goalkeeper Illan Meslier, before lofting the ball over the onrushing Frenchman and bundling it in to the net.
Nketiah, who has been given limited opportunities this season, staked his claim for further chances with a man of the match performance. Last night’s goal means that is two in as many appearances for him this season, both of which coming in the League Cup.
Such a display from England’s all time record U21s goalscorer raised further questions about his future. Nketiah only has a year left on his current deal and was linked with a move away from the club last summer. A loan move to Crystal Palace broke down late in the window. At 22 years old, development and game time is now the priority, something he is not currently receiving at the Emirates.
Despite this, Mikel Arteta is keen for Nketiah to sign a new deal at Arsenal. The Arsenal boss has ‘full belief that he will be a top, top player – and hopefully (that will happen) at Arsenal’.
Nketiah’s Future Uncertain
Despite this public backing and intent from the boss, his future at Arsenal is still incredibly uncertain. There is speculation that the move to tie Nketiah down to a new deal is solely to preserve his value. It would be more to ensure he is not to leave on a free.
For Nketiah, progress into the quarter-finals of the Carabao Cup will hopefully spell more opportunities to shine this season. Yet, with experienced forwards such as club captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang a mainstay in the team, and Lacazette still being at the club – regular chances will be hard to come by.
This is made even more difficult with Arsenal’s absence in Europe. The Europa League was a huge chance for young players and those on the periphery of the first team to stake a claim at regular football. The likes of Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe owe a lot to that competition, but those opportunities are now much slimmer at Arsenal.
The recent contract extension of Folarin Balogun is also of note here. It appears with his renewal, that he is the higher regarded out of the Hale End graduate forwards.
Nketiah has not featured in a matchday squad so far in the league this season. It is unclear whether he has a long-term future at his boyhood club.
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