Alan Smith Defends Mikel Arteta Over Eberechi Eze Signing

Arsenal legend Alan Smith backs Mikel Arteta as criticism grows over £67.5m signing of Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace.

Arsenal legend Alan Smith has come out strongly in defence of Mikel Arteta following growing criticism of the Eberechi Eze signing. The England international arrived at the Emirates Stadium last summer in a £67.5 million deal from Crystal Palace, a move that divided opinion almost immediately.

Despite Arsenal beating Tottenham Hotspur to secure the 27-year-old’s signature, Eze’s start to life in north London has not matched the early hype. He has registered just two goals in his first 15 appearances, with one coming in the Carabao Cup against Port Vale.

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Eze’s adaptation period has prompted criticism from several former players and pundits. People have raised questions about whether Arteta’s tactical system limits the attacking midfielder’s natural freedom.

Former Manchester United defender Paul Parker argued that Arsenal signed Eze based on his outstanding creative output at Palace, only to ask him to play a more restrictive role.

Paul Merson also expressed concern, suggesting Eze’s inconsistent form could damage both his Arsenal future and England ambitions if it continues.

North London Derby Hat-Trick Showed His Ceiling

Eze briefly silenced doubts with a stunning hat-trick against Tottenham in a dominant 4-1 north London derby win, a performance that showcased his technical quality and big-game mentality.

However, that moment has yet to spark sustained momentum. Eze has since gone eight matches without scoring and recently dropped out of the starting XI, with a muted FA Cup display against Portsmouth doing little to force his way back in.

Speaking to Metro, former Arsenal striker Alan Smith firmly rejected the idea that the signing was a mistake. The 1989 title winner insisted Arsenal were right to invest in Eze and urged patience.

“I still think Arsenal were right in signing him. I think he’s a really good player,” Smith said.

Smith also highlighted the indirect benefits of Eze’s arrival, particularly the competitive edge it has added to Arsenal’s midfield.

Smith believes Eze’s presence has pushed club captain Martin Ødegaard to raise his game, even if fitting both players into the same starting XI has not always been seamless.

“At times it’s looked a bit awkward trying to get him and Ødegaard in the same side, but Eze coming in has helped Ødegaard. The challenge has pushed him, and he’s finding better form.

This internal competition, Smith argued, strengthens Arsenal’s title credentials rather than weakening them.

Arsenal’s League Position Supports Arteta’s Approach

Arsenal currently sit six points clear at the top of the Premier League, reinforcing the view that Arteta’s long-term planning is working. Smith believes the squad is among the most complete in the league and sees no urgent need for January reinforcements.

“They’re so well covered. They’re one of the few sides where you’d say they don’t really need anything.”

Eze has already scored five goals in all competitions this season, and Smith remains confident that the midfielder will play a decisive role during the run-in.

With crucial fixtures ahead, including a Carabao Cup semi-final and key league matches, the coming weeks represent a defining period for both Eze and Arteta’s faith in him.

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