Arsenal midfielder Eberechi Eze is still waiting for his first Premier League start after a £67.5 million summer transfer from Crystal Palace. Two months into his career in North London, the 28-year-old England international has played just 233 minutes across all competitions. He has mostly made substitute appearances under manager Mikel Arteta.
Eze chose Arsenal in the summer transfer window after the club beat Tottenham Hotspur to his signature. High expectations surrounded his arrival, but fierce competition in Arteta’s attack and tactical shifts have slowed his progress into the starting lineup. His biggest contribution so far was a vital assist in a 4-2 Carabao Cup win against Ipswich Town.
Tactical Challenges and Left-Wing Deployment
A major reason for Eze’s limited impact is his position on the left wing. Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown noted that Arteta’s system requires strict tactical discipline. This approach contrasts with the total freedom Eze had at Selhurst Park.
"Eberechi Eze is starting to become quite a serious concern for Arsenal," Brown told Football Insider. "I don’t think it’s harsh to say we’re not seeing the same player there as we saw at Crystal Palace, but there are very clear reasons for that, and it’s not necessarily his fault. Arsenal have been playing him on the wing more often this season, and he’s never been a touchline winger."
At Crystal Palace, Eze was a dynamic central playmaker in the final third, scoring 40 goals and providing 28 assists in 167 appearances. At Arsenal, club captain Martin Ødegaard holds the central attacking midfield spot. Ødegaard’s strong form has blocked Eze from playing in his preferred role. Because of this, Arteta has often used other options like Christos Tzolis on the flank.
Missed Opportunities in the Champions League
Eze had a chance to shine in Arsenal’s 1-0 Champions League win against Napoli in Italy. He replaced Tzolis on the left wing but struggled to make an impact. He was quiet during the match and was substituted after 66 minutes.
Pundits, including former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand, previously questioned how Eze would fit into Arsenal’s rigid midfield. Ferdinand noted that Eze adds valuable depth, especially if Declan Rice plays a deeper holding role, but regular playing time remains difficult to secure.
Future Outlook at the Emirates Stadium
Despite questions about his slow start and lack of Premier League minutes, internal sources say Arsenal still have complete confidence in the 28-year-old. The club will not let Eze leave. They view him as a key part of their long-term depth for domestic and European competitions.
Eze also wants to stay at the club. He is focused on working hard in training to learn Arteta’s tactics, regain his spot in the team, and bring his Crystal Palace form to North London.
Key Facts About Eberechi Eze’s Arsenal Career
- Transfer Fee: £67.5 million from Crystal Palace in the summer transfer window.
- Playing Time: 233 minutes played across all competitions two months into the season.
- Primary Obstacle: Strong competition from Martin Ødegaard centrally and tactical deployment on the left wing.
- Club Stance: Arsenal view him as a vital squad member and have ruled out any potential exit.
