Mikel Arteta’s use of Bukayo Saka in midfield could actually be bad news for Eberechi Eze’s hopes of more game time at Arsenal.
Saka impressed playing in the number ten against Wigan, and the 24-year-old could now feature there more often.
TRUE or FALSE: Bukayo Saka should start in the NUMBER 10 role more often!
After the game, Arteta suggested Saka could start in midfield more often for the Gunners, given how well his tactical experiment worked.
That could spell trouble for Eze as Saka becoming a midfield option for Arteta means that he faces yet more competition for a spot in the team.
Bukayo Saka could take Eberechi Eze’s Arsenal spot
Bukayo Saka could now be about to take Eberechi Eze’s spot in the midfield after Arsenal thrashed Wigan 4-0 in the FA Cup.
Martin Keown hailed Saka’s display, as the Gunners’ vice-captain managed 36 touches, 25 passes, two dribbles, and 17 carries versus the Latics.
The Gunners looked potent in attack with both Eze and Saka starting in the dual 10 role; however, it will be tricky for Mikel Arteta to fit them both into his team.
The Spaniard will want to bring Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi back in, which leaves little room for Eze and Saka to start.
Finish the sentence: Eberechi Eze’s best position for Arsenal is _____
Meanwhile, Martin Odegaard should be back from injury soon, meaning even if Arteta were to use dual number tens, the Norwegian would likely be ahead of him.
Last Thursday, Eze was dragged off at half-time against Brentford, as his struggles with the North London club continued.
The 27-year-old responded well against Wigan with two assists, but it’s clear the former Crystal Palace star has fallen further down the pecking order at the Emirates Stadium.
Noni Madueke says Eberechi Eze was ‘unbelievable’ vs Wigan
Meanwhile, Noni Madueke has been sticking up for Eze and claimed his Arsenal teammate was ‘unbelievable’ versus Wigan.
Speaking to TNT Sports, Madueke said: “Yeah, he was unbelievable today! He pulled all the strings from the middle and had a hand in all the goals, so I’m really pleased for him.”
It’s been a tough run for Eze at Arsenal, and despite praise for Madueke, Saka’s new role at Arsenal should worry him.
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