Eberechi Eze discusses his move to Arsenal, the FA Cup win with Crystal Palace, and his focus on living in the present. Despite a summer filled with transfer speculation and emotional moments, Eze remains determined to succeed with Arsenal and secure a regular spot in the England squad, emphasizing the importance of staying grounded and limiting distractions.
Eberechi Eze reflects on a whirlwind summer, marked by his high-profile transfer from Crystal Palace to Arsenal and a memorable FA Cup-winning goal. Eze's journey has been filled with drama and significant moments, shaping his perspective as he aims for a regular starting role with England.
Recalling his early June experiences, Eze was on England duty in Barcelona, preparing for a match against Andorra. Thomas Tuchel had arranged a week of warm-weather training, and amidst this, transfer speculations swirled around Eze. Despite interest from other clubs like Tottenham, Eze's heart was set on Arsenal, a team he passionately supported since childhood.
Eze capped off an impressive season by scoring the decisive goal in the FA Cup final against Manchester City, securing Crystal Palace’s first major trophy and solidifying his legendary status at Selhurst Park. This victory amplified the anticipation surrounding his next move, with many expecting a summer transfer saga.
To manage the external noise, Eze adopted a strategy of limiting his time on social media. "For me, it’s fairly easy," he explained. "Just spend a lot less time on social media looking at what people are talking about and focus on what is going on now." This approach allowed him to stay grounded and concentrate on his immediate responsibilities.
He emphasized the importance of his inner circle: "I speak to my family and the people around me and I try to keep a tight bubble around me because I also know how exposure to those types of things can affect you. They will take care of themselves later on." This tight-knit support system helped him navigate the pressures and expectations during the transfer window.
Living in the moment became Eze's guiding principle, especially evident when his move to Arsenal was finalized. His presentation at the Emirates Stadium before a Premier League game against Leeds on August 23 was an emotional experience. The connection between Eze and the Arsenal fans was palpable, recognizing his lifelong support for the club and his journey through their academy, which saw him released at age 13.
Eze described the atmosphere as genuinely beautiful and electric. "I was trying to [savour it] because as you know, you have that moment and then that it’s – gone," Eze said, reflecting on his Emirates Stadium presentation. "Honestly, not really. I was just there, looking at the crowd and watching everything happen. It was a cool moment – more for my family, seeing what it meant to them. I think that’s the special thing for me. For me now, I’m just excited to play. There’s been a lot of noise off the pitch. I just want to get down and play."
In Arsenal’s subsequent match against Liverpool, Eze was used as a substitute, playing for 20 minutes but failing to make a significant impact. Similarly, in England’s recent 2-0 win against Andorra at Villa Park, Eze, starting in a central attacking midfield role, had a quiet game. Despite creating a few half-chances, he struggled to convert them into goals.
Tuchel acknowledged Eze's performance, stating, "He did not have his best day. He trained so well in the decision-making but he struggled a little bit." Despite this, Eze remains focused on improving and securing his place in the team, demonstrating his unwavering determination.
Eze cherishes the memories and experiences gained over the summer, including a mural of him that appeared outside the Emirates Stadium and personal messages from Arsenal legends like Ian Wright and Thierry Henry. "It is special," Eze said. "It’s not everyone that gets to experience these types of moments but I try to enjoy it and take it in my stride because there’s always something that is coming – another opportunity and challenge."
As Eze looks ahead, he remains grounded and committed to his development, ready to embrace whatever challenges lie ahead. His ability to stay focused and live in the moment will undoubtedly be crucial as he navigates his career with Arsenal and England.