The Arsenal head coach, Mikel Arteta, has been discussing the impact that recent acquisition Eberechi Eze has had in training during his initial week with the squad.
The 27-year-old player made his way to Emirates Stadium the previous week for a transfer sum reaching £68 million, after the Gunners moved swiftly to secure his services, pipping their rivals, Tottenham Hotspur, at the last moment.
Eze’s journey included a release from Arsenal at a younger age. He then spent time with QPR and Crystal Palace before eventually making his way back to the north London club. This adds an additional layer of interest to his signing.
Mikel Arteta reveals ‘aura’ Eze has brought to Arsenal
Eze’s presentation to the fans was quite a show, reminding some of a WWE Royal Rumble competitor. He walked casually into a loud crowd of Gunners supporters, dressed in baggy jeans and an Arsenal shirt. As he appeared, the advertising signs around the Emirates Stadium displayed a message that read: “It’s not just about the destination, it’s how you get there”.
Following a video released by the club, with commentary from Arsenal legend Ian Wright, some might have thought Eze was intentionally creating hype. However, his new manager has now confirmed that Eze has proven the initial excitement was justified, with his performances in training.
“Ebs brings with him something special,” Arteta commented to journalists during the press conference before the Gunners’ match against Liverpool this weekend.
“He has already been learning a lot and taking in information about what we expect to see from him on the field.”
“But more importantly, we are going to make sure that he is given the space and the opportunity to show us what he can do.”
With the manager also stating that Martin Odegaard may not be able to play in the game against Anfield, there’s a good chance that we will see Eze making his first appearance this weekend.
According to FourFourTwo, Arteta’s remark regarding Eze’s aura stands out. However, Arsenal fans may be even more interested in his statements about the ‘freedom’ he hopes to grant Eze.
The midfielder earned such rights at Palace in recent seasons, and delivered consistently with double-digit goal contributions, alongside his vital goal in the FA Cup Final against Manchester City.
If he gets the same freedom with Arsenal, playing alongside other talented attackers, it will be exciting for all fans, not just those who support the Gunners.
Eze is estimated to be worth €55 million, according to Transfermarkt. Liverpool will face Arsenal this weekend as the Premier League resumes.
