Eberechi Eze Breaks Silence on How Arsenal Transfer Saga Rocked His World
Eberechi Eze reveals he felt no anxiety about potentially missing out on an Arsenal transfer during the summer window, despite appearing close to joining London rivals Tottenham Hotspur, and describes his Emirates Stadium unveiling as a "memorable" experience for both him and his loved ones.
Tottenham seemed to have a clear path to securing Eze while Arsenal concentrated on pursuing striker Viktor Gyökeres, but after their failure to complete that deal, it opened the opportunity for the Gunners to revive their interest that had originated earlier in the transfer period.
Eze, who supported Arsenal as a child and came through their youth system, rapidly chose to accept the Gunners' proposal and found himself being unveiled at the stadium within days.
Arsenal had conducted discussions with Eze several months prior where the fundamental structure of a potential transfer was established, but communication went silent for an extended period as it seemed they wouldn't pursue their interest further. However, the 27-year-old insists he never harbored any doubts about his future destination.
"Anxious? Not at all. Because football is what I do," he explained. "That's my profession and regardless of where I find myself, I aim to perform at my highest level and I'm confident I'll achieve that anywhere.
"I'm thankful that it turned out to be Arsenal and that I have the chance to represent them and showcase my abilities, and I'm eagerly anticipating it. There's plenty happening, it's exciting for me. This is the reason I play football. These are the chances you desire. This suits me perfectly so I'm savoring it as much as possible. And giving everything I can."
Only four days elapsed between reports of Arsenal's offer and Eze's stadium presentation—a rapid sequence of events that will remain etched in his memory.
"I was attempting to [absorb it all] because as you understand, you experience that moment and then it's over," he added. "I was simply standing there, observing the supporters and watching everything unfold and it was an amazing moment—especially for my family, witnessing what it signified to them. I believe that's what makes it meaningful for me.
"For me, at this point, I'm simply eager to compete, eager to demonstrate my skills on the field, to work diligently, dedicate myself and get back to doing what I love. There's been considerable attention off the field but I just want to focus and play.
"And not everyone gets the chance to go through these kinds of experiences but yes, I try to embrace it and handle it as smoothly as I can because there's always something approaching. There's always another chance and test on the horizon so that's my perspective on it."