In a thrilling north London derby, Eberechi Eze emerged as a key player in Arsenal’s resurgence, showcasing the culmination of a carefully crafted tactical plan by manager Mikel Arteta. The 27-year-old forward, who joined the Gunners from Crystal Palace in the summer, has been on a journey of adaptation, patience, and growth — and now, it’s paying off.
After a week of international duty with the England squad, Eze was given two days off. But instead of resting, he returned to Arsenal’s training ground the very next day, eager to continue his development. “He wants to learn,” Arteta said, highlighting Eze’s relentless work ethic and commitment to mastering his role.
Over the past few months, Eze has been described by coaches as “tight” in his play — meaning he hasn’t yet felt fully comfortable in his new role. This is not unexpected, given the complexity of Arteta’s tactical instructions, which often involve a lot of detailed messaging. Eze, like Declan Rice in 2023, had to take time to fully internalize the system. Rice, too, only reached his peak after Christmas, when he fully grasped the tactical demands of the role.
Arteta’s approach is known for being precise and demanding, and Eze’s journey has been one of patience and persistence. Unlike some of his teammates, such as Jurrien Timber, who quickly adapted to the system, Eze has had to work harder to find his rhythm. But his dedication has not gone unnoticed.
Another challenge Eze faced was his playing style at Crystal Palace, where he was often given more freedom as a playmaker. Now, under Arteta, he has had to adjust to a more structured and tactical role. However, his adaptability and hunger to improve have allowed him to evolve into a more effective player.
In the derby against Tottenham, Eze’s impact was undeniable. His work rate, positioning, and understanding of the game have all come together, allowing him to contribute significantly to Arsenal’s performance. This is a testament to the trust Arteta has placed in Eze and the progress the forward has made in adapting to the club’s system.
As Arsenal continues its push for success, Eze’s journey serves as a reminder of the importance of patience, hard work, and the right tactical fit — all of which have finally come together in a way that has made him a vital part of the team.
