While this competition may not be at the top of Mikel Arteta's priority list, it doesn't diminish the Arsenal manager's appreciation for it. On a night that saw his fourth-choice goalkeeper, Jack Porter, become the youngest player to start a game for the Gunners at just 16 years and 72 days old, due to the absence of the injured David Raya, it was Ethan Nwaneri who stole the show. The 17-year-old scored twice on his full debut, showcasing his talent.
Following the aftermath of their intense draw against Manchester City, Arsenal never seemed in danger of being outplayed by opponents who once delighted in giving Arsène Wenger's sides a tough time. Declan Rice's early goal set the tone, and despite Aaron Collins briefly making it a contest after Nwaneri's double, Arsenal's blend of youth and experience guided them into the fourth round. Raheem Sterling scored on his full debut, and Kai Havertz added a fifth goal as a substitute.
Arteta had cautioned that the effects of Sunday's bruising encounter with City would necessitate several changes. Porter, who was on the bench in Atalanta last week and has shone for England's age group sides, seized his chance to impress, along with other promising youngsters. Only three players from the weekend's lineup survived, with Riccardo Calafiori shifted to central defense and Sterling making his first start. Positive news also came from Martin Ødegaard, who wrote in the captain's programme notes that he is "making progress and feeling more positive every day" after ankle ligament damage.
Bolton, who have had a slow start after narrowly missing promotion from League One last season, arrived in north London on the back of a 5-2 thrashing of Reading. Their manager, Ian Evatt, made seven changes, resisting the urge to select striker Dion Charles after his hat-trick. Despite a strong start, Bolton's fans were left frustrated when they felt Gabriel Jesus had fouled Josh Sheehan inside the area. They were soon punished when Rice curled home a superb goal from the edge of the area.
Nwaneri, who holds the record as Arsenal's youngest player, excelled in the No 10 role, with Sterling and Bukayo Saka both coming close to setting up Jesus. Nwaneri's first goal came just before the break, and his second shortly after the restart sealed Bolton's fate. Collins briefly pulled one back, but Sterling's goal and Havertz's late strike ensured an almost perfect night for Arsenal.
