Opinion

Forget Eberechi Eze, it’s obvious who Mikel Arteta must start against Liverpool

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Arsenal are set for a huge game against Liverpool in the Premier League, where a debut could be handed to Eberechi Eze.

The forward, who is a lifelong fan of the club, joined from Crystal Palace in a deal worth upwards of £60 million.

With Eze now back at Arsenal, many are excited to see him bring that creative spark to the side, which has been missing in recent seasons.

There may be a temptation to throw him straight into action against Liverpool at Anfield, though Mikel Arteta may not wish to do that.

Instead, there is one star who could fit better for the occasion, despite the chance of a dream debut for Eze.

Eberechi Eze is unveiled to the crowd at Arsenal v Leeds United
Photo by Catherine Ivill – AMA/Getty Images

Gabriel Martinelli has a better record against Liverpool than Eberechi Eze

Arsenal have some fitness concerns before the clash with Liverpool, as Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard have injuries that could rule them out of playing.

With that in mind, Clinton Morrison suggested a chance for Eze to play on the left, while moving Noni Madueke to the right flank.

While there is that temptation there, the obvious choice for the left flank is Gabriel Martinelli.

Given how poor Liverpool appear to be in defending transitional moments, the Brazilian has the pace to burn that could disrupt the opposition and make them uncomfortable.

While that seems an ideal tactical reason, the numbers back that up as well.

PlayerAppearancesGoalsAssistsWinsDrawsDefeats
Gabriel Martinelli1262255
Eberechi Eze811233
Gabriel Martinelli and Eberechi Eze record vs Liverpool.

Those six goals scored by Martinelli against Liverpool are the most he has managed against any opposition in his career so far.

It shows just how dangerous he has been against the Reds, in comparison to Eze.

While an argument can be made that they have been playing for a different level of team, Martinelli has shown he can do it right away for Arsenal.

Gabriel Martinelli in action during Arsenal v Villarreal in the Pre-Season Friendly clash.
Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images

Leandro Trossard also has a good record against Liverpool

While Martinelli may seem the obvious candidate for the left-wing position, he isn’t the only one available.

Leandro Trossard is another player within the Arsenal ranks who has a great record against Liverpool.

The Belgian forward has six goals and two assists in 13 appearances against Liverpool, having been a thorn in their side.

That includes a hat-trick during a clash for Brighton, before he made the move to Arsenal.

He may not be quite as ideal a fit tactically, though, as Martinelli’s pace on the transition would be more of a problem.