Jamie Carragher has publicly admitted he severely underestimated the impact of Eberechi Eze at Arsenal, conceding the summer signing could be the decisive factor in the club's quest for the Premier League title. This frank admission came after Eze's stunning hat-trick inspired a 4-1 demolition of arch-rivals Tottenham at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.
A North London Derby Masterclass
In a script that seemed pre-ordained, Eberechi Eze, who came close to joining Tottenham in the summer, delivered a devastating performance against the very club that almost secured his signature. With club captain Martin Odegaard absent, manager Mikel Arteta handed the 27-year-old England international the opportunity to start in his favoured number 10 role.
Eze repaid that faith with a breathtaking all-round display, capped by a ruthless hat-trick that tore Spurs apart. His performance was a statement of intent, not just in the derby, but in the wider context of the title race.
Carragher's Candid Confession
Speaking after the match, Carragher was unequivocal in his mea culpa. The Liverpool legend revealed that he had initially viewed Eze as a squad player who would operate in the shadow of Odegaard, rather than a game-changing signing.
He said: ‘When Eze came in, I thought, okay, maybe it’s not a game changer.’ Carragher continued, ‘I certainly undervalued the importance of that signing because he looks like he could make the real difference for Arsenal this season and going on to win the title. Apart from the sort of skill he’s scoring the goals and his overall contribution to the game.’
This reassessment highlights the immediate and profound impact Eze has had, forcing a respected pundit to reconsider his initial judgement in the wake of a man-of-the-match display.
Arsenal's Winning Mentality
While Arsenal invested heavily in other players like Martin Zubimendi, Viktor Gyokeres, and Noni Madueke, it was the boyhood Gunner who stole the headlines. The victory underscored the team's strength in depth and tactical flexibility under Arteta.
Eze himself was left almost speechless by his perfect day. ‘That is crazy. Special day man. Special day for me, my family,’ he said. ‘I don’t think I could’ve ever dreamt of it. This is more special than that.’
He also credited the team's meticulous preparation, adding, ‘We were prepared for whatever set up they were coming with because of the diligence of our staff. Huge credit to them. And of course the players in our team, the ability, the talent, from whatever angle we’re threatening to score goals.’
The result sends a powerful message to Arsenal's title rivals, with Eze emerging as a potential talisman in their pursuit of Premier League glory.
