Ebere Eze Left Wondering About His Arsenal Role After Latest Bench Role
Ebere Eze has once again found himself named on the substitutes' bench for Arsenal's Premier League clash against Wolves, sparking fresh doubts about his future involvement this season. The summer signing, who arrived with high expectations, has seen Bukayo Saka preferred in the crucial No.10 role, a decision that has drawn sharp criticism from former Arsenal star Paul Merson.
Merson's Brutal Verdict on Arteta's Selection
Speaking on Sky Sports, Paul Merson did not hold back in his assessment of Mikel Arteta's team selection. "If I was Eze I'd be thinking 'am I going to play for Arsenal many more times this season?'" Merson stated bluntly. He emphasized the difficulty of the No.10 position, noting that "it's not a position you just throw someone into" and expressed surprise that Saka was chosen over the more experienced Eze in that role.
Merson highlighted Eze's recent performance in the FA Cup win over Wigan, where he provided two assists, as evidence of his capabilities. "I thought they were bringing Eze in as the X-factor, that No.10 to make things happen," he said, referencing Eze's precise passing that "was through the eye of the needle." However, he suggested that against Wolves' compact defense, Eze might have been more effective on the wing where space is more readily available.
Saka Justifies Selection With Early Goal
Bukayo Saka quickly vindicated Arteta's decision by scoring the opening goal within minutes of the match starting. The England international ghosted into the box to head home a cross from Declan Rice, demonstrating the attacking threat he brings to the central position. This immediate impact contrasted with Eze's ongoing struggle for consistent minutes and form since his summer move.
Outside of his memorable hat-trick in the North London Derby, Eze has faced challenges adapting to Arsenal's system. He was substituted at halftime during the recent 1-1 draw against Brentford, with Martin Odegaard replacing him and making an immediate impact. Although Odegaard's injury might have opened a door, Eze remained on the bench against Wolves, suggesting he hasn't yet earned Arteta's full trust.
Arteta's Mixed Messages on Eze's Role
Mikel Arteta has sent mixed signals regarding Eze's position at the club. While the Arsenal manager has praised certain aspects of Eze's game, saying "some superb goals and his intentions, I think the risk that he took in the final third... that's really positive," he has also demanded more from the player off the ball. Teammates have reportedly echoed these criticisms in recent months.
The absence of key players like Mikel Merino and Kai Havertz might have presented an opportunity for Eze to secure more playing time, but Saka's selection indicates otherwise. This pattern mirrors the adaptation periods experienced by other Arsenal signings like Declan Rice and Kai Havertz, suggesting Eze may need similar time to settle. However, with the season progressing and competition for places intensifying, patience may be wearing thin for the former Crystal Palace midfielder.
As Arsenal continue their push in the Premier League, Eze's limited role raises questions about his long-term future at the Emirates. Will he follow the path of other signings who eventually flourished after a settling-in period, or will this season become one of frustration and bench appearances? Only time will tell, but for now, Eze remains on the outside looking in.
