According to a report by London Evening Standard on Wednesday October 21, 2026, Arsenal's performance against Nottingham Forest continues to attract attention, with Eberechi Eze facing criticism after struggling to make an impact during Sunday's Premier League encounter at the City Ground.

The England international received his first league start of the season on the left wing but was substituted at half-time, with Noni Madueke replacing him and eventually scoring Arsenal's winning goal.

Mikel Arteta explained after the match that he “wanted something else” from that position, highlighting the need for greater effectiveness from the left side as Arsenal searched for a breakthrough.

Former Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole has now shared his assessment of Eze's situation, insisting the £65 million signing must improve his performances if he wants to secure regular opportunities.

Speaking on the Dressing Room Podcast, Cole compared Eze's circumstances with Martin Odegaard's, noting that the Arsenal captain received patience last season despite struggling to reach his usual standards.

“Odegaard got a lot of grace last year because of what he's done for the club in the past, but he wasn't at the levels,” Cole explained.

He added that Odegaard has returned strongly this season, immediately demonstrating the quality required to compete for a starting position at a club with Arsenal's ambitions.

Cole believes the competition at Arsenal means attacking midfielders must consistently perform at an exceptional level, particularly when competing for the number ten position against talented teammates.

“If you're going to play number 10 for Arsenal, you've got to be doing it better than anyone else in the league, because they're there pushing each other,” he said.

Drawing on his own playing experience, Cole encouraged Eze to remain composed, maintain his standards during training and make the most of every opportunity he receives.

“You need to keep your composure, keep going, keep training well. Then when you get the opportunity, do more,” Cole added.

Eze has previously experienced a half-time substitution, including against Aston Villa last December, after which he waited two months before earning another Premier League start.

However, the 27-year-old recently scored his first goal of the season against Lille, demonstrating his attacking potential. With Madueke competing for the wing position and Odegaard performing strongly, Eze must seize future opportunities.