After a remarkable breakthrough season at Arsenal, Ethan Nwaneri is set to get a new shirt number that will symbolise a change of identity.

According to well-known journalist Charlie Waltz, the 18-year-old talented midfielder will change from the original No. 53 jersey to No. 22, which is vacated by goalkeeper David Raya. Raya previously joined Arsenal on loan from Brentford and then transferred permanently. He wore the No. 22 jersey in his first season in North London, and next season he will change to the No. 1 jersey, which symbolizes the main goalkeeper's identity.

This number adjustment is not only a redistribution of internal status, but also an official recognition of Nwaneri's transition from a youth training star to a first-line player. The No. 22 jersey has always symbolized the identity of a core member of the team, which also means that he will play a more important role in the future.

Nwaneri was officially promoted to the first team before the start of the 2024-25 season along with his close friend and fellow academy member Miles Lewis-Skelly. What really allowed him to seize the opportunity was the period when Bukayo Saka was injured and missed the game in December last year. Nwaneri's calm performance in the midfield and frontcourt is amazing. So far this season, he has contributed 9 goals and 2 assists in all competitions, winning unanimous recognition from the coaching staff and fans.

It is reported that Arsenal is also simultaneously advancing another key task, signing a new five-year contract with Nwaneri to keep him at the Emirates Stadium until at least 2030. This move not only consolidates the construction of the team's future core lineup, but also reflects the club's continued trust in local youth training.