Mikel Arteta wants new signings for Arsenal's forward line - in Nwaneri, he has a player for his short-, medium- and long-term ambitions

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta heaped praise on midfielder Ethan Nwaneri after the 17-year-old produced another fine performance to help his side secure a spot in the Champions League round of 16 with a victory at Girona.

Arsenal fans believe Ethan Nwaneri is better than Bukayo Saka was at 17 in wake of his display in the Champions League win over Girona.

Arsenal take on Girona in the Champions League tonight. It is the Gunners’ final game of the new-look league phase, with their automatic progress through to the last 16 without the need for a two-legged knockout play-off tie all but secured ahead of this evening’s visit to Catalonia.

Arsenal goalscorer Ethan Nwaneri said his match-winning strike against Girona that marked his full Champions League debut was “one of the highlights” of his career. The 17-year-old became the second-youngest English scorer in the competition on Wednesday after Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham when he curled in a fine effort just before half-time in Catalonia to complete a 2-1 comeback win from a goal down and ensure his side’s progression.