Opinion

Eberechi Eze faces a new issue at Arsenal which means he could now play even less under Mikel Arteta

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Not only is Eberechi Eze competing with Martin Odegaard for the number ten role at Arsenal, but Kai Havertz has now joined the conversation.

The German international has really impressed since returning from injury and has taken up a new midfield role over the last few weeks.

Finish the sentence: Kai Havertz’s best position for Arsenal is _____________

Kai Havertz's last four matches
Credit: Catherine Ivill – AMA/Getty Images

Martin Odegaard has been out injured for the last week, and instead of Eze coming into the team, the manager has opted for Havertz.

So, having not played many minutes recently, Eze’s game time could take a further hit if he is now competing with Havertz and Odegaard.

Kai Havertz jumps ahead of Eberechi Eze for Arsenal

Kai Havertz now appears to have jumped ahead of Eberechi Eze in the queue for the number ten role at Arsenal.

The 27-year-old has not enjoyed the best of times since making the switch to the Emirates Stadium, given his lack of minutes.

Eze’s last goal came against Tottenham when he scored a hat-trick; however, his performances and minutes have since regressed.

The winger has not made a Premier League start since December 13 against Wolves, and has really only featured in the cup competitions over recent months.

Agree or disagree? Kai Havertz should take Martin Odegaard’s number ten spot… 👀

Martin Odegaard and Kai Havertz of Arsenal during a training session at Singapore Sports Hub.
Credit: Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images

Now, Havertz’s return from injury is posing him a new issue, with Odegaard having already overtaken him in the pecking order.

The former Chelsea star has looked great for the Gunners and managed two goals and two assists in his last four matches.

Eze could well end the season with several winners’ medals; however, he won’t be terribly pleased with his contribution so far.

Mikel Arteta discusses Kai Havertz’s new Arsenal role

Mikel Arteta has confirmed that he has been using Havertz in a new midfield role to have both him and Gabriel Jesus in attack.

“Well, with Kai, with the kind of game that we expected as well, and the way they play, and the type of threat that we wanted to create as well with him and Gabi in and around the three central defenders,” he told the media.

“So, yeah, something as well that we have to use, because we have very different qualities from Kai to Martin or to Ebs, or to other attacking midfielders.”