Arteta Reveals Eze Call: Arsenal Ahead of Tottenham
Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Eberechi Eze contacted the coach to explore the possibility of joining Arsenal, just as the player was about to finalize his transfer to North London rivals Tottenham. Eze was presented to the fans at the Emirates Stadium minutes before the 5-0 victory over Leeds United. The signing was finalized after a £67.5 million deal. Tottenham had reached an agreement to sign Eze after extensive talks between the clubs, but a report suggested that the 27-year-old player spoke with Arteta, which triggered a board meeting at Arsenal, who decided to go for the player, bringing the club’s summer spending to over £260 million.- How did Arsenal beat Tottenham to sign Eze and why did they need him?
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When asked about the call with Eze, Arteta stated: “That shows how much he wanted to come. Sometimes it’s very difficult because you want to be very open and transparent with the players. They have to make decisions in their careers that are very, very important. I am delighted to have him. You can see how much it means to him and to his whole family. Welcome to our family and I am sure we are going to have great moments together.”That shows how much he wanted to come. Sometimes it’s very difficult because you want to be very open and transparent with the players.
Mikel Arteta
When asked if Eze has the “X factor” that can offer something different to Arsenal, Arteta replied: “Without a doubt. I think he has the ability to create these magical moments. He can do it from different positions, different situations”.
