'The moment' Eze breaks his silence on the transfer tussle for his signature

Eberechi Eze had the opportunity to join either Arsenal or Tottenham during the summer transfer window before ultimately completing his move to the Emirates. Tottenham had been keen to secure the midfielder as one of the top players available in the market, which quickly alerted Arsenal to the possibility of losing a talented player to a rival.

Initially, Arsenal’s focus had been on other transfer targets, and a move for Eze did not appear to be part of their immediate plans. However, the club ultimately decided it was not in its interest to allow one of the Premier League’s best players to strengthen a direct competitor. Eze had long harboured aspirations of returning to Arsenal, having been released from the club’s academy as a youngster.

Arsenal’s Pursuit and Eze’s Decision

When Arsenal made their approach, Eze accepted the offer without hesitation. The midfielder had always dreamed of representing the Gunners at senior level, and the opportunity to return to the club where he began his footballing journey was one he could not ignore. His decision reflects both his ambition and emotional connection to Arsenal, highlighting the significance of the transfer for his career.

Eze spoke candidly about that period and the choices he faced, as quoted by Standard Sports: “I was prepared to go to Tottenham, but from the moment Arsenal came, it was always going to be them. My first (senior) Arsenal game was special. It almost didn’t feel real because it’s something I’ve been dreaming of for a long time. Playing for Arsenal from eight to 13, it’s been in the back of my mind wanting to go back. It felt like the realisation of a dream.”