Arsenal fans are buzzing over the arrival of Eberechi Eze, but manager Mikel Arteta is also grappling with concerns following injuries to key players Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard in their recent 5-0 victory against Leeds United. The Gunners faithful witnessed Eze's presentation at the Emirates Stadium, a moment that solidified the club's ambition to compete at the highest level.
Arteta expressed his delight at securing Eze's signature, emphasizing the player's determination to join Arsenal. He highlighted Eze's unique qualities, noting his capacity to create "magic moments" and his versatility in playing various attacking positions. Arteta also pointed out Eze's "flair" and "charisma," which he believes will positively impact the team. It was revealed that Eze himself initiated contact with Arteta, underscoring his strong desire to be a part of the Arsenal project, even turning down a rival offer from Tottenham. The transfer is reportedly worth £60 million upfront, with an additional £7.5 million in potential add-ons. Eze will wear the number 10 shirt.
However, the excitement surrounding Eze's arrival is tempered by worries over the fitness of Saka and Ødegaard. Both players were forced off during the Leeds game, casting a shadow over the otherwise dominant performance. Ødegaard suffered a shoulder injury after landing awkwardly following a challenge. Saka, who scored a goal in the match, left the pitch clutching his hamstring.
Arteta admitted his concern about Saka's injury, calling it "significant". He noted that Saka felt the injury while sprinting, which is "never a good sign". While it is reportedly not the same hamstring that Saka injured previously, the setback is a cause for concern, especially considering his importance to the team. Jamie Redknapp of Sky Sports noted that Saka's absence would be a "major blow" for Arsenal, emphasizing his role as a talisman. Arteta confirmed that both Saka and Ødegaard would undergo scans to determine the extent of their injuries. "Martin felt something in his shoulder when he landed," Arteta stated. "We don't know [how bad it is]. We'll have to scan him tomorrow and understand a bit better".
These injuries add to Arsenal's growing list of absentees, with Kai Havertz already sidelined with a knee injury. Arteta acknowledged the challenges of managing injuries, particularly early in the season. "In two weeks, already we lost Kai, Martin and Bukayo," he lamented. "So it tells you how well-equipped you have to be in this league to manage and to maintain the level that we want".
Arsenal faces a crucial match against reigning Premier League champions Liverpool at Anfield next weekend. The potential absence of Saka and Ødegaard would undoubtedly impact the team's chances. The Gunners will be hoping for positive news from the scans and that the injuries are not as severe as initially feared. In the meantime, Arteta will need to rely on the depth of his squad and the fresh impetus provided by Eberechi Eze to navigate this challenging period.
