Arsenal Players

General Information

Eberechi Oluchi Eze (born 29 June 1998) is an English professional footballer who plays as an attacking midfielder or winger for Arsenal and the England national team. A former product of Arsenal’s academy, Eze dramatically returned to the Emirates in 2025 following a standout spell at Crystal Palace. Known for his creativity, flair, and ability to unlock defences with incisive dribbling and vision, he has quickly become one of the most exciting additions to Arsenal’s current squad.

Early Life and Youth Career

Eze was born in Greenwich, London, and represented multiple local academies—including Arsenal, Fulham, Reading, and Millwall—during his teenage years. After being released by each, his perseverance led him to Queens Park Rangers and a path back to professional football. At QPR, he rediscovered his form, breaking into the first team and winning the club’s Player of the Year in the 2019–20 season.

Breakthrough at QPR and Move to Crystal Palace

Eze’s breakthrough came at QPR, where his dribbling, technical flair, and goal-scoring ability earned him attention. He had a loan spell at Wycombe Wanderers which toughened him up physically and mentally before becoming a mainstay at QPR. In 2020, Crystal Palace signed him for around £17 million. Over five seasons, he made over 145 appearances and became the creative heartbeat of their side, not least by scoring the winning goal in their first-ever FA Cup final victory in 2025.

Return to Arsenal

In July–August 2025, Arsenal secured Eze’s return in a dramatic £67.5 million deal, beating Tottenham in the process. He signed a four-year contract, taking the iconic No. 10 shirt. Mikel Arteta lauded his talent and intelligence, praising the determination with which Eze pushed to return to Arsenal—the club he supported and joined as a youth.

Playing Style

Eze is a dynamic, creative playmaker who excels in tight spaces. His dribbling and close control are exceptional, allowing him to beat defenders one-on-one. He operates in a freedom-loving role—often drifting between midfield and wide areas—to unlock defences through precise passes or well-timed runs. He also possesses a composed finishing touch and a flair for scoring spectacular goals. His set-piece delivery adds another layer of threat. Under Arteta’s system, he is expected to inject unpredictability, tempo and imagination into Arsenal’s attack.

Arsenal Debut and Immediate Impact

Shortly after signing, Eze joined the squad ahead of a key away match at Liverpool, underlining how immediately Arteta entrusted him. Early impressions from training highlighted his “special aura” and readiness to adapt to the team. His return symbolizes Arsenal’s attacking evolution, particularly as the club navigates a season challenged by injuries to key playmakers.

International Career

Eze earned his first senior England call-up in 2023 after standout Premier League performances. To date, he has made 11 appearances for the national side and scored in World Cup qualifying. His England exploits reflect his consistency and readiness to influence at the highest level.

Legacy and Prospects at Arsenal

Eze’s journey—from academy youngster to being released, rising through lower leagues, and then returning to Arsenal as a marquee signing—is a story of resilience and vindication. At Arsenal, he offers creative potency and technical excellence, filling a vital role for a team hungry to reclaim trophies. If he maintains his form, Eze has the potential to become a defining creative force for both club and country in the years ahead.