Eberechi Eze has expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Crystal Palace after completing a high-profile transfer to Arsenal, bringing an end to a memorable five-year spell at Selhurst Park. The 27-year-old England international thanked the south London club for “giving him a chance” and “believing in him,” as he prepared to embark on a new chapter in north London.
Eze’s move to Arsenal was finalized at the 11th hour, hijacking a deal that had been on the verge of completion with fierce rivals Tottenham Hotspur. The £67.5 million transfer saw Arsenal secure the midfielder, who scored the winning goal in last season’s FA Cup final, further strengthening Mikel Arteta’s squad. Upon joining, Eze was handed the No.10 shirt, previously worn by Emile Smith Rowe, signalling his importance in the Gunners’ attacking plans.
Eberechi Eze Pays Emotional Tribute to Crystal Palace as He Joins Arsenal
He becomes Arsenal’s seventh signing of the summer, joining the ranks of Martin Zubimendi, Viktor Gyokeres, Noni Madueke, Cristhian Mosquera, Christian Norgaard, and Kepa Arrizabalaga. Eze was officially unveiled to fans ahead of Arsenal’s home clash with newly promoted Leeds United, marking an eagerly anticipated debut for the talented midfielder-cum-winger.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed his delight at securing Eze’s signature. “We are absolutely delighted to bring Eberechi to Arsenal,” he said. “He is a powerful and exciting player who will give us a new dimension in our attacking game. What stands out just as much as his talent and intelligence is the way he has worked hard throughout his career to get where he is today. His journey, mentality, and ambition are exactly what we want in our team, and we love how much it means to him and his family to join our club. We all look forward to working with him soon.
Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta also praised Eze, describing him as “a creative and explosive talent with huge technical quality” and a “big-game player” whose experience with England underlines his ability and character. Berta added that the club’s internal teamwork had been “excellent” in securing the deal and expressed confidence that Eze would be an important addition to Arsenal as they continue to build for success.
For Eze, the move represents a full-circle moment. Having been released by Arsenal as a 13-year-old academy prospect, he has now returned to the club where he first dreamt of playing in the Premier League. His Instagram message to Palace fans highlighted the emotional weight of his departure, as he reflected on his journey.
“Five years, man. Crazy,” Eze wrote. “It feels like just yesterday I was joining from QPR, and the day you gave me the chance to realise my dream of playing in the Premier League for South London’s biggest club. From the start, I had goals and targets for what I wanted to achieve here at Palace, but I had no idea what the last five years would turn out to be.”
Eze recalled the challenges he faced, including recovering from a serious Achilles injury during the COVID-19 pandemic. He also celebrated the historic FA Cup triumph, describing it as “the most special day of my career” and a moment that would “connect us for generations.” He concluded by thanking the club, fans, and everyone who supported him throughout his journey: “Thank you for believing in me, thank you for giving me a chance, and thank you for the love shared that will last a lifetime. Up the Palace. God Bless, Ebz.”
Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish responded with equal warmth, calling Eze an “inspiration” and “role model.” He praised Eze for his achievements both on and off the pitch, noting his contributions to the club’s historic FA Cup victory and his charitable work. “Eberechi has had a huge impact on Crystal Palace and the people of south London,” Parish said. “He epitomises everything good about the modern footballer. We will always hold Ebs in our hearts and wish him all the success for the future. He will always be welcome back at Selhurst Park.”
Eze’s transfer not only strengthens Arsenal’s midfield options but also signals the club’s intent to compete at the highest level domestically and in Europe. For Palace, his departure marks the end of an era, but fans will remember his decisive goals, leadership, and commitment to the club both on and off the field.
As he prepares to don the red and white for Arsenal, Eze carries with him the lessons, memories, and gratitude from his time at Selhurst Park—a chapter that will remain close to his heart even as he embarks on a new journey at the Emirates Stadium.
Source- Metro
