Eberechi Eze scores first Arsenal goal amid Premier League starting role concerns

Eberechi Eze broke his scoring duck for the season in a key Champions League win, but his ongoing absence from the Premier League starting lineup is becoming a major talking point. The forward netted Arsenal's second goal in a 3-0 victory over Lille on Tuesday 13 October 2026, a result that keeps the Gunners perfect in Europe. His moment of celebration, however, is set against a backdrop of domestic frustration as he continues to watch league games from the bench.

Eze opens his account in emphatic European win

Arsenal needed a spark to break down a stubborn Lille side at the Emirates Stadium. After Jurrien Timber's superb opener, Eze provided it just minutes later. The goal came from a slick move involving substitute Bukayo Saka, whose pass took a slight deflection before Eze finished to make it 2-0. Saka would add a third shortly after in a devastating seven-minute spell. Manager Mikel Arteta had rotated his squad, making five changes for this match, and Eze's contribution from the start was a positive response. He had missed a good chance in the first half but made no mistake when it mattered after the break, helping secure a second consecutive Champions League group stage win.

Despite his European impact, Eze has not started a single Premier League match for Arsenal this season. This is a surprising situation for a player who was instrumental in the club's title-winning campaign last year. The issue was highlighted recently when first-choice left winger Christos Tzolis was absent against Leeds United. Instead of turning to Eze, Arteta selected Noni Madueke, who delivered a strong performance. This decision has reportedly left Eze concerned about his standing in the squad as he waits for a league opportunity to prove himself once more.

Arteta's team selections have consistently thrown curveballs in Eze's direction, challenging him to adapt. The manager's preference for Madueke as the direct backup to Tzolis suggests Eze may have slipped down the pecking order on the wing. His path into a central midfield role is also blocked by fierce competition. Myles Lewis-Skelly has impressed in that area, and the summer arrival of Bruno Guimaraes adds another high-quality option. Eze's versatility is an asset, but it does not currently guarantee him a regular spot in any specific position. He must now use every minute he gets, whether in Europe or off the bench in the league, to force his way back into Arteta's primary plans.

In a recent interview from 8 October 2026, Eze was asked about his preferred position. His response highlighted the tactical flexibility Arteta demands. "They’re both different," Eze said, acknowledging the distinct requirements of playing on the wing versus operating in midfield. This adaptability is what makes him a useful squad player, but it also means he isn't the automatic first choice in any one role. For now, his immediate focus will be on building from his Champions League goal. Arsenal's packed schedule of eight games in 25 days means chances will come, but Eze must be ready to seize them decisively.

• Eze scored his first goal of the season in Arsenal's 3-0 Champions League win over Lille on 13 October 2026.
• The 27-year-old has yet to start a Premier League game this campaign, causing concern about his role.
• Manager Mikel Arteta recently preferred Noni Madueke as the deputy left winger when Christos Tzolis was unavailable.
• Fierce competition in midfield from Myles Lewis-Skelly and Bruno Guimaraes complicates Eze's path to more minutes.