According to a report by Sky Sports on Tuesday, 20 October 2026, Paul Merson has raised doubts about Eberechi Eze's ability to settle in at Arsenal following the £60 million signing's lackluster performance in the Premier League opener.

The ex-Arsenal midfielder thinks Eze will have a tougher time at the Emirates Stadium due to the intense competition for attacking positions and the weight of expectation to produce consistently good play.

After leaving Crystal Palace for Arsenal in the summer of 2025, Eze started his first season with the Gunners and was instrumental in their Premier League and Champions League championships.

Unfortunately, the England international is finding it harder to establish a regular starting role due to the increased competition for spots brought about by the arrivals of Bruno Guimaraes and Christos Tzolis.

Eze started Sunday's league match against Nottingham Forest, but he struggled and was replaced at halftime. After coming on as a substitute, Noni Madueke scored the game-winning goal in the waning moments to give Arsenal the 1-0 win.

Merson told Sky Sports that Eze has to adjust to the mental and tactical demands of playing for a club that is in the hunt for championships.

A prime example, according to Merson, is Eberechi Eze. You are required to play well at Arsenal. Playing in a shape is essential. We won't let you play by your rules. Big clubs don't allow free spirits anymore.

In contrast to his duties at Arsenal, here multiple players contend for control of games, the former midfielder compared Eze's position at Crystal Palace, where the team could construct much of its offensive play around him.

Merson further raised doubts about Eze's chances of getting back on track, considering the quality of Arsenal's roster and manager Mikel Arteta's propensity to make substitutions.

This kid can play. Although I am uncertain about his potential for Arsenal, he is an absolutely charming player. As soon as he fails, he's gone, so I have no idea if he'll ever get another chance.

After being substituted early against Forest, Eze's situation has also concerned former Arsenal striker Ian Wright.

Arsenal is still in the hunt for the Premier League crown, trailing Manchester City by three points following their most recent win, despite the criticism.