Manager Mikel Arteta has declared that summer signing Eberechi Eze is already fulfilling his purpose at Arsenal, stating the attacking midfielder was brought to the club to “win football matches.”
Arteta made the comments following Arsenal’s 2-0 Carabao Cup victory over Port Vale on Wednesday.
Eze opened the scoring at Vale Park just eight minutes into the match, netting his first goal for the Gunners after a perfect assist from youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly.
While pleased with the result, Arteta suggested Eze could have had an even bigger impact on the scoreline.
“That’s why we got him, to win football matches,” Arteta told Sky Sports.
“He should have scored another two, I think.”
When discussing the 27-year-old England international’s role on the pitch, Arteta emphasized flexibility.
He explained that Eze’s position changes based on the opposition and his teammates, ensuring he remains heavily involved in the play.
“He is a player who has to be in touch with the ball,” Arteta added, “and we find ways to do that.”
The statistics from the match underscore Eze’s influential performance. He recorded 55 touches, completed 88% of his passes, won five duels, and successfully delivered all of his long balls.
Beyond this match, Eze has made a strong start to his Arsenal career, providing two crucial assists off the bench, including a sublime pass in the recent win over Manchester City.
With a key Premier League fixture against Newcastle United approaching, Eze’s form presents Arteta with a positive selection dilemma.
After a performance that demonstrated his creativity and seamless adaptation to Arsenal’s style, Eze is making a compelling case for a starting role at St James’ Park as the Gunners look to continue their winning ways.