Arsenal teenager Ethan Nwaneri has been named in England’s 29-man preliminary squad for this summer’s European Under-21 Championship in Slovakia.
The 18-year-old has enjoyed a breakthrough campaign at club level and continued to shine on international duty during March’s friendlies.
His inclusion follows a starring role in a 4-2 win over Portugal, where he netted a trademark goal by cutting inside from the right and curling a left-footed strike into the bottom corner.
Lee Carsley, who guided England to the 2023 title, will trim his squad to 23 players ahead of the tournament. The head coach is understood to be in close contact with Arsenal to manage Nwaneri’s workload and ensure his continued development is handled carefully.
Speaking after the Portugal win, Carsley praised Nwaneri’s composure and maturity, but stressed the need for patience.
“He’s 18 – unbelievable,” said Carsley. “It’s important that we look after him. We’ll work with Arsenal to decide if the summer tournament is the right step.”
Nwaneri debuted for Arsenal at just 15 years old in 2022, becoming the youngest player in Premier League history. He has since grown into a more influential figure, registering eight goals this season.
Carsley also acknowledged that the youngster is part of a new generation of bold, attacking players England must nurture carefully.
“Players like him bring something different,” said Carsley. “I don’t want to dampen that because I don’t think we have enough English players like that.”
Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton was another headline name in the squad announcement, having recently helped his club lift their first-ever FA Cup trophy. Wharton was taken off late in the final with a head injury and will miss the Eagles’ last league match, but has been cleared to join the U21s.
England head coach Thomas Tuchel confirmed Wharton’s omission from the senior squad was intentional, allowing him to take a leading role at the Euros alongside fellow youngsters Tino Livramento, Jarell Quansah, Elliot Anderson and Liam Delap.
The Young Lions begin their title defence on June 12 against Czech Republic, before facing hosts Slovakia on June 15 and Germany on June 18. England won the previous edition with a 1-0 victory over Spain thanks to a Curtis Jones goal.
The final squad will be confirmed on June 6.
