Mikel Arteta highlights “phenomenal” behind-the-scenes effort from Arsenal star that supporters will appreciate
Arsenal’s manager Mikel Arteta has expressed his admiration for Eberechi Eze due to the valuable contributions he is making even while not currently on the pitch. The England international moved to the Gunners from Crystal Palace during the summer transfer window and has recorded five goals along with two assists to his name, including a spectacular hat-trick against Tottenham. However, Eze has found himself as an unused substitute in the recent matches, prompting understandable inquiries regarding his status. Arteta, on the other hand, has emphasized his high regard for Eze, describing the 27-year-old’s “phenomenal” attitude off the field as he strives to reclaim his starting position.
Mikel Arteta commends Eberechi Eze for his behind-the-scenes contributions Eberechi Eze competing for Arsenal against Chelsea (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images) During his press briefing prior to Arsenal’s clash with Liverpool, Arteta had only encouraging remarks regarding Eze when questioned about the decision to keep him on the sidelines. The Spanish coach has evidently not lost faith in Eze, and supporters will likely be pleased by what appears to be an excellent response from the player to being excluded from starting recently. “Ebs has been exceptional, whether he’s on the field or not – that’s a significant quality we possess in the squad,” Arteta remarked.
? Mikel Arteta has commended Eberechi Eze’s “phenomenal” behind-the-scenes efforts! ?? pic.twitter.com/q028MtTH3G
— CaughtOffside (@caughtoffside) January 7, 2026 When elaborating on his statement about Eze’s exceptional nature when not playing, Arteta clarified, “Because his level of ambition is increasing. The manner in which he trains daily, his determination, his urgency to reshape my judgment. He’s been phenomenal, and that’s no small feat. I firmly believe we are going to witness an impressive version of Ebs.” Eberechi Eze aiming to overcome Martin Odegaard
Check below for a solid comparison of the impact Martin Odegaard is delivering centrally, undoubtedly making it tougher for Eze to secure a starting role now that the Norway international has returned from injury… Martin Odegaard vs Eberechi Eze statistics comparison (DataMB) Naturally, Eze can provide quality from the wings, indicating that he might still have an opportunity to start alongside Odegaard, rather than merely competing with him. Nevertheless, the chart below also shows that Leandro Trossard is enjoying a remarkable season with Arsenal and is currently contributing more than Eze when he starts on the wing… Leandro Trossard vs Eberechi Eze statistics comparison (DataMB) Eze is certainly a talented player, as evidenced during his tenure at Crystal Palace, but it remains somewhat ambiguous where his optimal position lies and whether he aligns well with the specific requirements Arteta has in mind, either centrally or operating from the flanks. It will be fascinating to observe how this situation unfolds as the season progresses, but it appears that Arteta still has high expectations for Eze despite his recent limited usage.
Published: 2026-01-07 22:30:00
source: www.caughtoffside.com
