Arsene Wenger compares Arsenal 'special talent' Ethan Nwaneri to former star he managed

Iconic former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has explained why he has noticed similarities between rising star Ethan Nwaneri and ex-Gunners playmaker Cesc Fabregas.

Nwaneri is enjoying his breakthrough season in the Arsenal first-team, and is now a regular member of the senior squad despite being just 17-years-old. The teenager has already scored seven goals this campaign and looks set to continue being a key player for current head coach Mikel Arteta.

Injuries to Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli have all sped up opportunity for Nwaneri to enjoy more game-time for Arsenal across recent weeks. That form has caught the attention of Wenger, who enjoyed 18 years as manager of the Gunners and famously helped bring several youth prospects into the first-team and then on to become global stars.

One such player was Fabregas, who Wenger handed a senior debut to in the Premier League at the age of 17 back in 2004. Wenger reserved special praise for Nwaneri after the Gunners claimed a 2-0 win over Leicester City at the weekend, in which the club's latest wonderkid played a starring role.

"Nwaneri is more a creator through his final ball, his dribbling and the quality of his passing," Wenger told beIN SPORTS.

Richard Keys, who was hosting the programme, then replied to Wenger, pointing out that Fabregas had similar qualities during his breakthrough in the Arsenal team.

"Yeah, of course," Wenger continued. "Fabregas was very strong mentally, but this boy looks as well and when I look at him, his maturity, it's difficult for me to think he's 17-years-old."

Keys then responded by saying: "But that was the case with Fabregas, as well, wasn't it?

"He was such a good player."

The conclusion of the discussion saw Wenger reply, by adding: "Of course, but the sign of a special talent is that they are ready early."