Paul Merson tips £67.5m Arsenal signing Eberechi Eze as title race ‘X-factor’

Arsenal title race battle with Man City could hinge on Eze’s X-factor influence in decisive run-in.

Paul Merson has identified Eberechi Eze as the potential difference-maker in Arsenal Premier League title race battle with Manchester City, tipping the £67.5m signing to become the decisive Arsenal X-factor in the run-in.

As the season reaches its decisive phase, the former Gunners midfielder believes Eze has the unique qualities to tilt the title race in Arsenal’s favour — if he can deliver consistently during the final stretch of games.

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Speaking to Sky Sports ahead of Arsenal’s crucial clash with Chelsea, Merson made his view clear:

“I think Eze was bought to be the X-factor to get Arsenal over the line. He’s got that elegance about him, he can turn past players, and he finds those little pockets of space that others can’t.”

Merson believes that if Eze and Viktor Gyökeres maintain high performance levels during the final run-in, Arsenal will be champions.

“In the final ten games, if he and Gyökeres perform at an 8/10 level consistently, Arsenal will win the league.”

Fine margins in a tightening title race

Arsenal currently hold a narrow lead at the top of the table, with Manchester City applying relentless pressure following a late run of victories. Every fixture now carries title-level consequences, and Merson believes unlocking deep defensive blocks will define the race.

“Chelsea will likely sit back and hit on the counter,” he warned. “That’s where players like Eze become crucial — breaking lines, finding space, creating something out of nothing.”

Eze’s influence has already been felt in decisive moments. His brace in Arsenal’s 4-1 North London derby win over Tottenham showcased exactly why Arteta pushed for his signing.

Five goals in two appearances against Spurs this season have changed the narrative surrounding his adaptation, following a mixed start after joining from Crystal Palace.

The talent has never been in doubt — only consistency.

Merson also highlighted Arteta’s high standards as a potential obstacle to rhythm:

“Arteta plays on sparks — if you make a mistake, you’re out. We saw it when Eze got caught against Aston Villa. He needs regular football to build that rhythm.”

The balance between tactical discipline and creative freedom remains the final piece of the puzzle for Eze’s Arsenal role.

Arsenal’s wildcard in the title race

With Declan Rice, Martin Ødegaard and a structured midfield base already in place, Eze offers something different — unpredictability, flair, and the ability to break elite defensive structures.

Manchester City remain the benchmark under Pep Guardiola, with experience, squad depth and title-run mentality. But history shows title races are often decided by moments — not systems.

For Merson, Eze represents that moment player.

Not the most consistent.
Not the safest option.
But potentially the most decisive.

And in a title race defined by margins, that may be exactly what Arsenal need.

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