Robert Pirès has hailed teenage prospect Ethan Nwaneri as a technically gifted player following his loan move to Marseille, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Nwaneri completed a temporary switch to the Ligue 1 side on January 23, joining until the end of the season after struggling for consistent first-team opportunities at Arsenal. The teenager had enjoyed a breakthrough 2024/25 campaign with the Gunners, scoring nine goals and earning a new five-year contract before seeking further development time abroad.

Speaking to Le Provence, the former France international expressed confidence that new Marseille coach Habib Beye will help refine the youngster’s game during the remainder of the campaign.

“It’s not easy for him, but the English aren’t afraid of anything. I’m not worried about him,” Pires said.

“He’ll have Mason Greenwood’s support. What’s also good for him is that Habib speaks very good English.

“Young Ethan is technically gifted and very incisive. Over the final three months, Habib can contribute something to him.”

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