ETHAN NWANERI says he was convinced to make a loan move to Marseille after having conversations with Arsenal team-mate William Saliba.
The Gunners’ academy graduate, 18, has joined the French side until the end of the season.
Nwaneri’s loan switch does not include an option to become permanent in the summer.
But the winger has revealed that Arsenal defender Saliba persuaded him to ignore advances from other admirers and test himself at the Orange Velodrome.
After arriving in Marseille to complete the mid-season transfer, Nwaneri said: “It is one of the best clubs in the world, with great fans.
“William Saliba told me that it is one of the best clubs in the world.
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“Roberto De Zerbi is one of the best managers in the world. He’s demanding. I’m ready to play under him and listen to what he wants for the team.”
Saliba, 24, had a stunning temporary spell with Marseille before he made the grade at Arsenal.
The Frenchman made 52 appearances and his consistent performances allowed him to work his way into Gunners chief Mikel Arteta’s plans.
Nwaneri was desperate to leave the Emirates Stadium after being limited to just 165 minutes of Premier League action this season.
He found himself behind Bukayo Saka in the battle for regular game time on Arsenal’s right flank.
Noni Madueke’s £52million arrival from Chelsea last summer also played a role in restricting his opportunities.
Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli have been preferred in the wide positions as well.
Nwaneri was left on the bench as Arsenal notched a 3-1 win over Inter Milan on Tuesday.
He could make his Marseille debut in the showdown with shock Ligue 1 table-toppers Lens on Saturday.
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