New Arsenal midfielder Eberechi Eze has finally spoken out after completing his high-profile move from Crystal Palace a transfer that didn’t come without a bit of drama, especially with North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur in the mix.
For a while, it seemed like Eze was on the verge of joining Spurs. But in a dramatic twist, Arsenal swooped in late to secure the £67.5 million deal, snatching him away from their biggest rivals.
The England international has since been unveiled to Arsenal fans at the Emirates, with his official presentation taking place before the Gunners’ 5-0 victory over Leeds United.
Now, Eze has opened up about his decision to join Arsenal over Tottenham. Unsurprisingly, the move has sparked strong reactions from Spurs fans who feel the club was blindsided.
Speaking in an interview with Arsenal legend Ian Wright, Eze called the transfer “a dream come true,” revealing that he's always aspired to wear the Arsenal shirt.
“Once I knew there were clubs interested, I couldn't stop thinking about Arsenal,” Eze told Wright. “For me, this club represents what it means to be a professional. It’s always been the place I’ve wanted to get to.”
He went on to share that his connection with Arsenal runs deep, dating back to his childhood when he used to watch games at the Emirates from the stands.
“Every time I came here as an away player, I’d look over at the seat I used to sit in with my brothers. I’d always tell myself, ‘One day – this is my moment,’” he recalled.
Eze said that belief in himself and his destiny to return to Arsenal was a constant driving force throughout his career.
“As a player, you’ve got to have self-belief. I’ve always trusted that if something’s meant to be, it will happen and I truly believed this move would,” he added.
