Arsenal already boasts a wealth of attacking options, from new signing Noni Madueke and established players like Gabriel Martinelli, Leandro Trossard, and Bukayo Saka, to young talent Ethan Nwaneri. This is not to mention 15-year-old Max Dowman, who debuted in the 5-0 victory against Leeds in the second round last week, and striker Gabriel Jesus, who is nearing a return from injury.

But immediately following Kai Havertz's knee injury, Arsenal decided to swoop in and acquire Eze from rivals Tottenham.

Eberechi Eze made his debut before Arsenal's 5-0 win against Leeds in the second round of the Premier League at the Emirates Stadium, London, England on 23/8. Photo: Arsenal FC

Distribution of Arsenal's attacks in the 2024-2025 Premier League season. Photo: Premier League

Previously, manager Mikel Arteta often tried to adapt to injuries. However, after the 2024-2025 season crisis, which saw Jesus, Saka, and Martinelli sidelined at various points, forcing midfielder Mikel Merino to play as a forward, the Emirates club has taken steps to increase squad depth.

Eze can fill the "false nine" role like Havertz, play on the left wing, or, most likely, operate as a left-sided midfielder – the position Arsenal originally intended for Havertz this season, following the arrival of $86 million striker Victor Gyokeres. Arteta hinted at this after the 3-0 friendly win against Bilbao earlier in August, where both Gyokeres and Havertz scored. "They can play together, or Havertz will play in other positions," the Spanish manager said.

At Crystal Palace, Eze usually started in the left attacking area in manager Oliver Glasner’s 3-4-2-1 formation, a position almost like a "left-sided number 10." This is precisely the area that the left midfielder in Arteta's 4-3-3 formation typically occupies. Heat maps from the 2024-2025 season show Eze's movement is almost identical to Declan Rice, who frequently played this role at Arsenal.

Heat map of Eberechi Eze and Declan Rice in the Premier League during the 2024-2025 season. Photo: Premier League

This is likely the main reason Arsenal decided to sign Eze. But beyond his versatility, the 27-year-old attacking midfielder brings distinct qualities that no one else in the current squad possesses.

Eze contributed to 16 goals, with 8 goals and 8 assists, in the 2024-2025 Premier League season, matching Arsenal's best individual tally achieved by Bukayo Saka. He also boasts several attacking statistics that surpass Arsenal players from last season: an expected goals (xG) of 10.5 (Havertz had 9.5), 100 shots (Leandro Trossard had 95), and 138 dribbles (Gabriel Martinelli had 109).

Eze's creativity is also impressive, with 58 chances created, just behind Martin Odegaard (63). He also completed 11 through-balls, again trailing Odegaard (25).

In terms of playing style, Eze stands out with his ability to carry the ball forward, weave through defensive lines, and operate in tight spaces using his dribbling skills, not just through combination play. He completed 27% more dribbles than Arsenal's best player last season and created 40 chances after carrying the ball at least 5 meters (25 shots, 15 assists) – a statistic no Arsenal player could match.

These qualities are especially useful when Arsenal faces opponents who sit deep and cede possession. The 0-0 draw against Everton at home last December is a prime example. Arsenal had 77% possession but only managed two shots with an xG above 0.1 (0.3 and 0.4). Havertz was criticized for his performance as a forward, but the real issue lay in midfield, with left midfielder Mikel Merino having the fewest touches (44) and passes (20) among the starters, posing little threat.

Distribution of Arsenal's attacks in the 2024-2025 Premier League season. Photo: Premier League

Eze is expected to help Arsenal play more directly and capitalize on transition opportunities, rather than relying on slow build-up play that allows opponents to retreat. The 27-year-old can retain possession, accelerate, and create chances immediately after winning the ball back.

Furthermore, Eze brings balance to the left flank, reducing reliance on Odegaard and Saka on the right – which accounted for 44% of Arsenal's attacks last season. This promises to open up more space for teammates.

Versatility is another strength. Eze can play as a left midfielder, winger, or a "false nine." This gives Arteta more tactical options with a type of player Arsenal has never had before, capable of elevating the team's performance to a new level.

Hong Duy (according to Premier League)