Arteta hails Eberechi Eze’s determination and hunger at Arsenal

Mikel Arteta has opened up on just how much Eberechi Eze has impressed him since arriving at Arsenal, highlighting a level of drive he admits he did not fully expect.

The Gunners boss says the attacking midfielder’s mentality in training and around the club has stood out from day one.

“I didn’t know that he was so determined, so obsessed and so willing to push his body. I didn’t know that part of him and it really surprised me in a really powerful way, how much he loves the game.”

Arteta explained that Eze’s reaction when he was unable to play told him everything he needed to know about the player’s character. “When you take away somebody’s opportunity to play, you really see their reaction. His was – wow.” The manager praised how involved Eze remained with the squad, the positive energy he brought every day and his openness in conversations about how he can best impact games and where he feels most comfortable on the pitch.

Arteta believes that time working closely together has been used “in a really good way” and has only strengthened Eze’s importance to his plans.