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Ethan Nwaneri made his mark in Arsenal’s 5-1 victory over League One Bolton, netting twice in his first senior start to help his team reach the Carabao Cup fourth round. The 17-year-old forward slotted home his first goal from Raheem Sterling’s cross and capitalized on a Bolton defensive error for his second, after collecting a pass from Declan Rice and finishing under goalkeeper Luke Southwood.
Nwaneri’s performance stood out as he also contributed to Arsenal’s opening goal. His cross led to a Scott Arfield clearance mishap, allowing Rice to calmly finish into the bottom corner.
“You can tell he is playing with confidence and belief,” said Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta. “In his journey with the first team, he is always ahead of what everybody expected.”
Sterling added Arsenal’s fourth goal, following up on a spilled shot from Bukayo Saka, marking his first goal for the club since joining from Chelsea. Kai Havertz rounded off the scoring by converting a rebound after another Sterling effort was saved.
Bolton’s Aaron Collins scored a consolation goal in the 53rd minute, preventing teenage goalkeeper Jack Porter from keeping a clean sheet on his senior debut. At 16 years and 72 days old, Porter became Arsenal’s youngest-ever starting player, breaking a record previously held by Cesc Fabregas.
Porter, fourth-choice for the Gunners, was thrust into the spotlight due to injuries and cup-tied goalkeepers. Arteta praised the young keeper: “It is a big step, a big occasion, but he reacted really well.”
Arsenal’s youthful lineup, which also featured Josh Nichols, Myles Lewis-Skelly, and Nwaneri making full debuts, showcased their potential alongside experienced players like Rice and Jorginho. Their contributions could be crucial as the club manages a packed schedule and their pursuit of a Premier League title.
