It was one of those nights where everything clicked for Eberechi Eze. Arsenal’s latest victory over Port Vale wasn’t just about scoring goals—it was about the No. 10 finally being allowed to thrive in his natural position.
The 27-year-old midfielder made the role his own, blending creativity, energy, and instinct, and reminded everyone why he’s such an exciting talent for the Gunners.
Dominance From the First Whistle
From the start, Arsenal controlled the game. Unlike last week in Bilbao, where Eze had been confined to the left and struggled to influence proceedings, this time he was free to drift, attack, and orchestrate.
Paired with Ethan Nwaneri as two dynamic “eights,” he moved fluidly across the pitch—pressing defenders, linking play, and arriving in the box at just the right moments.
His opener came courtesy of a delightful flick-on from Myles Lewis-Skelly off a Martinelli cross, slotting home with poise.
The first half saw him toy with Port Vale’s defenders, flipping passes and finding space, showcasing that silver touch which makes him such a threat.
Arsenal’s Fluid and Efficient Attack
Arsenal’s 600-plus pass display on the night looked more like a training session than a cup tie, with the whole team moving the ball seamlessly.
Saka was eased back into action for an hour after his hamstring injury, while Gabriel Martinelli caused constant trouble down the flank.
Yet it was Eze who consistently dictated the tempo, reading the game, pressing smartly, and even helping defensively when required.
Moments of Brilliance
One highlight came on the half-hour mark when Eze rolled the ball under his studs to lure Port Vale’s George Hall into a challenge, before cleverly feeding William Saliba.
After the break, he continued his impressive performance, flicking a ball to Lewis-Skelly that teased the opposition’s defense.
Despite Arsenal already leading comfortably, Eze remained engaged and influential, a sign of both his skill and football intelligence.
A Statement for the Central Role
With the game all but won, Eze capped his performance by waiting on the edge of the box to finish a corner from Nwaneri ten minutes from time.
His low-key exit drew polite applause from the travelling fans, but the message was clear: in the No. 10 spot, Eze can shine for Arsenal.
Substitute Leandro Trossard added a late second goal, but the real takeaway was Eze’s commanding display.
Looking Ahead
The challenge now lies in how Mikel Arteta accommodates the return of Martin Odegaard from injury, who naturally occupies the central role in the preferred 4-3-3 formation.
Eze’s performance, however, makes a compelling case for flexibility in the system, allowing him to do what he does best—linking play, unlocking defenses, and orchestrating attacks from the heart of midfield.
For one night at least, Arsenal fans saw the No. 10 finally in his element.