Mikel Arteta has come to the defense of Eberechi Eze following the midfielder’s subdued debut in Arsenal F.C.’s 1–1 Premier League draw against Brentford F.C. on February 12, Softfootball reports.
In a comment confirmed by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano via his official X handle, Manager Mikel Arteta defended the England international, admitting adaptation is never easy and also stating It’s not easy when you move to a new club and when you play against a team like Brentford, noting the physical nature of the contest.
Romano reported as follows :
Arteta on Eberechi Eze: “It’s not easy when you move to a new club and when you play against a team that is like Brentford”. “The ball is a lot of times NOT on the floor and especially for creative players, it’s more difficult”.
Eze, who completed a high-profile January 2026 move from Crystal Palace F.C., struggled to impose himself and was substituted at halftime after a quiet first-half performance that saw him register zero shots, zero dribbles, and zero key passes. He is faced with mounting scrutiny after a disappointing display in Arsenal’s 1-1 draw away to Brentford FC.
When Eze arrived from Crystal Palace FC, it appeared to be a dream return to his boyhood club. However, six months on, the creative spark that once dazzled at Selhurst Park has struggled to ignite in North London. With limited starts and increasing pressure, the big question remains: can Eze adapt to Arsenal’s demands, or is his dream move at risk of becoming a nightmare?
Arsenal legend Ian Wright had previously suggested that Eze needs greater freedom to unlock his creativity and contribute meaningfully to the title push, accusing manager Mikel of not giving Eberechi Eze the freedom to play at the club.
The draw trimmed Arsenal’s lead at the top of the Premier League from six points to four, intensifying pressure as Manchester City F.C. remain in pursuit. With neither side fully convincing in recent weeks, the title race continues to tighten.
