Eberechi Eze says he always believed his move to Arsenal would go through this summer despite late interest from Tottenham.
The 26-year-old joined the Gunners from Crystal Palace in a deal worth up to £67.5 million ($88m), becoming one of the headline transfers of the Premier League window.
Mikel Arteta’s side moved for Eze after Kai Havertz suffered a knee injury, with the midfielder paraded on the Emirates pitch before the match against Leeds on 23 August.
Eze, who supported Arsenal as a boy and previously spent time in their academy before being released at 13, described the moment as “special” for him and his family.
“I wanted to savour it because those moments can be gone in an instant,” he told the Evening Standard.
“It was emotional, more for my family, seeing what it meant to them. For me, I just want to get down and play.”
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“Worried? [the deal could collapse] No,” he said. “Because I play football. That’s what I do and wherever I am, I want to be the best I can be. I’m grateful that it’s Arsenal and that I’ve got the opportunity to play there.”
How did Eze react to the transfer saga?
Eze ended last season in fine form, scoring the winner in Crystal Palace’s FA Cup final victory over Manchester City, the club’s first major trophy, before speculation mounted about his future.
He admitted the constant coverage was difficult to ignore, but leaned on a close circle of family and friends to stay focused.
“There’s been a lot going on, but it’s fun for me,” he said.
“I spend less time on social media and keep a tight bubble. These are the opportunities you want as a footballer. There’s always another challenge coming.”
Eze has made his Arsenal debut and featured in England’s 2-0 World Cup qualifying win over Andorra on Saturday, though manager Thomas Tuchel admitted he “did not have his best day.”
England face Serbia in Belgrade on Tuesday as they continue their push for the 2026 finals.
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