Arsenal legend makes explosive statement about “passenger” in the team.

Tension is in the air in London following Eberechi Eze’s disappointing display in the match between Arsenal and Brentford, which ended in a modest 1-1 draw. The Gunners’ star, who arrived this summer from Crystal Palace, is experiencing a turbulent start to his career at the Emirates Stadium, and comments from Martin Keown, a club legend, quickly emerged.

Eze, who had the opportunity to start the match, failed to make an impact and was substituted by Mikel Arteta before halftime. Former player Peter Crouch did not hold back his criticism, referring to Eze as a “passenger” who did not seize his chance to shine. “He hadn’t started in nine games and had this opportunity, but he simply wasn’t at his best,” lamented Crouch during the analysis on TNT Sports. “We predicted he would be substituted after half an hour because it seems that at this moment, Arteta doesn’t count on him.”

Despite the criticism, Keown defended Eze, acknowledging that the 27-year-old player still needs time to adapt to Arsenal’s demanding style. “He doesn’t yet have the qualities that Martin Ødegaard possesses, but I am convinced that he can turn it around,” stated Keown. “The issue is not that Arteta doesn’t trust him, but rather that Eze has not yet understood the team structure in the same way Ødegaard does, who knows exactly where to be when the opposition has the ball.”

Eze joined Arsenal after an excellent performance at Crystal Palace, where he ended the previous season with a decisive goal in the FA Cup final against Manchester City. However, the transition to the Gunners has been difficult. With only five goals to his name and none in the last 16 matches, confidence in Eze has waned, and he has spent more time on the bench than on the pitch.

Eze’s situation raises questions about the player’s future at Arsenal. Will Mikel Arteta give more opportunities to the former Crystal Palace talent? Undoubtedly, the disappointing performance against Brentford did not help his case. With the pressure mounting, Eze will need to find a way to reintegrate and demonstrate his true worth before criticism becomes a constant in his performances. Time is ticking, and Gunners fans are eagerly hoping the player finds his rhythm and confidence.