Eberechi Eze Names the Arsenal Star Who Left Him Stunned

Eberechi Eze has revealed that while he held lofty expectations for his new Arsenal teammates following his late summer transfer, Jurriën Timber has managed to surpass even those high standards.

Following Arsenal's activation of a £60 million ($78.4 million) release clause to secure Eze from Crystal Palace, where he netted the decisive goal in last season's FA Cup final, the England star now plays alongside the likes of Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, Martin Ødegaard and William Saliba. However, it's the adaptable defender Timber who has impressed him most.

"All the players are essentially what you'd anticipate them to be," Eze shared on GOAL's Beast Mode On podcast, speaking with former EFL striker Adebayo Akinfenwa. "My expectations for every player were already elevated. I'd highlight one individual who has surpassed even the lofty expectations I held—despite hearing positive reports about him—and that's Jurriën Timber.

"He's an exceptional talent and an outstanding person."

Timber arrived at Arsenal from Ajax in a £38.5 million ($50.3 million) transfer during summer 2023. The Dutch international, capable of playing right-back or center-back, was sidelined for the majority of his inaugural campaign after sustaining an ACL injury during his Premier League debut, but has since overtaken Ben White as a regular starter following his recovery.

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"What strikes me about being in an atmosphere with individuals who foster a culture focused on development is that everyone here wants to grow," Eze explained regarding his observations from within the club.

"For me, it's an honor to be involved and witness players like him who deliver performances at that level, who conduct themselves with such professionalism. It's truly motivating."

This mentality, combined with better fortune regarding injuries, could finally enable Arsenal to claim the Premier League crown for the first time since 2003–04.

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