Arsenal’s narrow 1-0 defeat to Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday has stirred more than just frustration over the result—it’s ignited a debate over Mikel Arteta’s decision to bench new signing Eberechi Eze, despite injuries to key starters Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard.
The £60 million summer arrival from Crystal Palace, whose fee could rise to £67.5 million, was expected to inject creativity and flair into Arsenal’s attack. Yet Eze was left on the bench until the 70th minute, entering the match too late to prevent Dominik Szoboszlai’s stunning free-kick from sealing the win for Liverpool.
🎙️ Pundits Question Arteta’s Call
The decision baffled several high-profile pundits, including Alan Shearer and Arsenal legend Ian Wright. Speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast, Shearer expressed his disbelief:
“I was surprised with Arsenal not starting Eze. It’s not as if he hasn’t played—he’s played all season. He’s already played Liverpool.”
Gary Lineker offered a more measured take, suggesting the club might be easing Eze in, but ultimately conceded Shearer’s point. Wright, meanwhile, reportedly voiced his confusion over a pint with Shearer, asking, “Why is he not playing?”
The consensus among the trio was clear: Eze, fit and in form, should have started.
🧠 Arteta’s Tactical Gamble
Arteta’s decision may have been rooted in caution or tactical preference, but with Saka and Ødegaard sidelined, many expected Eze to be the natural replacement. Instead, Arsenal started fellow summer signings Viktor Gyokeres and Noni Madueke, while Eze watched from the sidelines until late in the second half.
When he did come on, Eze showed glimpses of his threat, but the momentum had already swung Liverpool’s way.
🔴 Eze’s Arsenal Journey Begins
Eze’s move to Arsenal was a homecoming of sorts. A lifelong fan, he spent time in the club’s youth system before launching his professional career via Fulham, Millwall, and QPR. His signing was a coup for the Gunners, who beat Tottenham to his signature.
He’s one of several high-profile additions this summer, including Martin Zubimendi, Christian Norgaard, Cristhian Mosquera, Kepa Arrizabalaga, and deadline-day arrival Piero Hincapie—bringing Arsenal’s summer spending to over £250 million.
📊 Arsenal’s Early Season Form
Despite the Anfield setback, Arsenal sit third in the Premier League table, having secured wins over Manchester United and Leeds United. Their next test comes against Nottingham Forest at home, followed by a Champions League opener away to Athletic Bilbao.
With the international break offering a reset, fans will be eager to see Eze given a starting role as Arsenal look to bounce back and build momentum. Whether Arteta adjusts his approach remains to be seen—but the pressure to unleash Eze from the start is mounting.
