Arteta Drops Bombshell: The Eze Factor That Could Have Changed Everything in North London Derby

Mikel Arteta attributed Eberechi Eze's remarkable north London derby debut to his exceptional dedication and work ethic.

Eze made history as the first Arsenal player in almost 47 years to net a hat-trick against their fierce rivals. The Gunners dominated Tottenham Hotspur to establish a six-point lead at the Premier League summit as the demanding winter schedule intensifies.

This marked Eze's finest display in Arsenal colors since his £67 million ($87.6 million) summer transfer. The ex-Crystal Palace star has needed time to adapt while being deployed in various positions due to squad injury concerns. However, his manager felt this derby masterclass was somewhat predictable based on what he witnessed from his No. 10 following the November international break.

"Following two days off after England duty, he was eager to return to training on day one," Arteta explained.

"His desire to come back, improve, and seek guidance was evident. When you combine such talent and intelligence with that determination to excel and practice, these moments are bound to happen."

How North London Derby Performance Affects Arsenal, Eze

Arteta revealed his conversation with England manager Thomas Tuchel regarding maximizing Eze's capabilities.

"During my discussion with Thomas Tuchel about Eze, I asked about his quality. He told me, 'Among the finest I've encountered.' I consider him exceptionally gifted," Arteta stated. "Combined with his current work ethic, commitment to the team, and the enthusiasm he brings to our facility, we possess a remarkable talent."

Arsenal icon Thierry Henry also highlighted the competitive pressure on club captain Martin Ødegaard due to squad depth.

"Speaking of Martin Ødegaard..." the former forward commented on Sky Sports. "I've mentioned this before - this player [Eze] is naturally a No. 10, regardless of perspective. He's not a wide player, he's a central playmaker. He belongs in the heart of midfield, as demonstrated tonight."

Under Arteta, Eze has featured as a left winger, left-sided No. 8, and No. 10. The Gunners appear committed to maintaining a Declan Rice-Martín Zubimendi partnership, creating one available midfield position.

Ødegaard's fitness issues have provided Eze opportunities in central areas. Upon the Norwegian's return to full fitness, Arteta faces a significant selection dilemma.

Eze Set to Clash With Former Teammate in Champions League

Despite the acclaim following the derby triumph, Eze and Arsenal cannot afford complacency. Their Spurs victory launched an intense winter schedule, with Champions League action on Wednesday as Bayern Munich visits the Emirates.

The Bundesliga champions remain undefeated across 18 matches in all competitions and lead the league phase standings. While Arsenal's historical struggles against Bayern are well-known, Wednesday's encounter will spotlight Eze's reunion with former Palace colleague Michael Olise.

Both players enter the fixture in excellent form, with Olise inspiring Bayern's 6–2 demolition of SC Freiburg through five goal contributions. Under Vincent Kompany, he's operated across the attacking line, though Olise is expected to start as a No. 10 opposite Eze.

While defeat won't derail Arsenal's Champions League campaign, victory could provide significant momentum ahead of Saturday's Premier League visit to Chelsea.

Eberechi Eze vs. Michael Olise: 2025–26 Statistics