Arteta's Revelation About Eze's Discontent Before Derby Dominance
Mikel Arteta has openly admitted that he "upset" Arsenal's star midfielder Eberechi Eze prior to the Gunners' commanding 4-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur in the North London Derby. The Arsenal manager revealed that Eze was displeased with recent team selection decisions, which ultimately fueled the player's exceptional performance against their fierce rivals.
Eze's Derby Dominance Continues
Eberechi Eze, Arsenal's £67.5 million summer signing from Crystal Palace, delivered another spectacular display against Tottenham, scoring twice in Sunday's emphatic win. This follows his remarkable hat-trick in Arsenal's 4-1 victory over Spurs back in November, meaning the midfielder has now scored five of his six Premier League goals this season against Tottenham.
Eze opened the scoring in the first half, though Tottenham quickly equalized through Randal Kolo Muani. However, Arsenal's superiority became increasingly evident as the match progressed, with the Gunners fighting for the Premier League title while Tottenham battle relegation.
Arteta's Tactical Decisions and Player Response
Arteta explained that Eze's frustration stemmed from being substituted at halftime during Arsenal's 1-1 draw with Brentford the previous week, followed by being benched for the 2-2 draw against Wolves. "He was upset, even with me, because I didn't play him in the other day from the beginning and some of the decisions that I made," Arteta confessed during his post-match press conference.
The Arsenal manager praised Eze's response, stating: "He has scored five goals in the last two games against Tottenham, which is extremely difficult to do, but I could see that he wanted to prove something. I start to understand how we're going to get the best out of him now."
Comprehensive Derby Victory
After Tottenham's equalizer, Arsenal regained control with Viktor Gyokeres restoring their lead shortly after halftime. Eze then scored his second goal of the match to make it 3-1, effectively securing the victory. Gyokeres completed the scoring with a fourth goal in injury time, capping off a dominant performance for the title-chasing Gunners.
Arteta expressed immense satisfaction with his team's approach: "Really happy, really proud about how we approached the game. The initiative and the quality we showed to come here and win the game in the way that we did."
Title Race and Relegation Battle
The victory moved Arsenal five points clear of second-placed Manchester City in the Premier League title race, while Tottenham remain in 16th position, just four points above the relegation zone. Spurs interim manager Igor Tudor acknowledged the gulf between the teams, stating: "A difficult start against a team who is now in this moment. A different level of physical state of mind, so congratulations to them."
Tudor added: "They were much better and they deserve this win. I got the spirit which we wanted to do things, but it was not enough. It is nice to understand where we are in this moment."
Looking Ahead
Arteta emphasized the ongoing nature of the title race, noting: "This is the Premier League, it will go all the way for sure. Ten games in the Premier League is a long way." Arsenal continue their championship pursuit against Chelsea next weekend, while Tottenham face another London rival in Fulham as they fight to avoid relegation.
The Arsenal manager concluded with praise for his attacking players: "He came here for a reason and we need those moments from these players. I think him and the front players today, I think they've done what we expect from them."
