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Eberechi Eze's Arsenal struggles continue

2026-09-12 · Eberechi Eze · Player Focus

Eberechi Eze's difficult start to the season at Arsenal hit a new low with a disappointing performance in the Champions League against Napoli, casting doubt on his future in the starting lineup.

Eze was handed a rare start on Wednesday night in Naples, taking the place of new signing Christos Tzolis on the left wing for Arsenal's first Champions League outing of the 2026/27 campaign. It was a major opportunity for the 28 year old, who had been a substitute in all four of the Gunners' Premier League games before this match. He needed to impress manager Mikel Arteta to secure a more permanent role.

Instead, his audition lasted just 66 minutes before he was replaced by Tzolis. The England international failed to make a meaningful impact in the final third during his time on the pitch. His display was described as "far too safe and predictable" in one post match assessment, a stark contrast to the exciting, dribble happy player he was at Crystal Palace. That outstanding form at Selhurst Park earned him a £67.5million move to the Emirates last summer.

Despite winning the Premier League in his debut season with Arsenal, Eze has struggled to replicate his Palace performances consistently. This latest showing means he is likely to watch from the sidelines again when Arsenal face Sunderland in the league this Saturday. The pressure is mounting on a player once seen as the solution to the club's left wing issues.

At his best with Crystal Palace, Eze was a fan favorite known for getting supporters off their feet. He regularly tied defenders in knots with clever footwork and direct running. That version of the player has been seen only in flashes since his big money transfer. The creative spark and unpredictability that defined his game have often been missing in an Arsenal shirt.

His integration into Arteta's structured system appears to be an ongoing challenge. While he contributed to the title win, his role has diminished this season as competition for places intensifies. The arrival of players like Tzolis only adds to the battle for minutes. Eze's task now is to rediscover the form that made him one of the most sought after attacking midfielders in England just over a year ago.

  • Eberechi Eze was substituted after 66 minutes in Arsenal's 1-0 Champions League win over Napoli on Wednesday.
  • He received a poor rating of four out of ten for a performance deemed "far too safe and predictable."
  • The £67.5million signing from Crystal Palace has been a substitute in all four Premier League games this season.
  • His place in the starting XI is under threat ahead of Saturday's match against Sunderland.

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