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Eberechi Eze: A Crystal Palace Gem and Transfer Target
Eberechi Eze’s exceptional talent is undeniable. Described as “astounding” and a “gift” by Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish, Eze’s future remains a topic of much speculation. Despite a strong finish last season and a European Championship appearance with England, a move to a top club hasn’t materialized. This article delves into the reasons why the gifted midfielder, Eberechi Eze, hasn’t yet made the leap to an elite team, examining his performance, injury history, and the persistent interest from major clubs.
The Puzzling Question: Why No Move Yet?
Last September, Steve Parish openly wondered why Eze hadn’t been snatched up by a bigger club. He acknowledged that Palace, while ambitious, often serves as a springboard for players aiming for the highest echelons of football, as evidenced by Michael Olise’s transfer to Bayern Munich. Given Eze’s talent, his continued presence at Selhurst Park raises questions.
- Could his £68 million release clause be a deterrent?
- Are his recurring injuries a concern for potential suitors?
- Does his age (turning 27 in June) factor into the equation?
These factors, compounded by fluctuations in Eze’s performance, contribute to the ongoing uncertainty surrounding his future and a potential transfer to a top-tier club.
Premier League Interest: A Host of Admirers
Aston Villa, Crystal Palace’s FA Cup semi-final opponent, tops the list of clubs keeping tabs on Eze. Manchester United has also recently made inquiries. Other prominent clubs, including Tottenham, Manchester City, Chelsea, Liverpool, and his boyhood club Arsenal, have all, at various times, expressed interest. Despite this widespread admiration, none have yet committed to signing him.
Consistency and Robustness: Key Concerns
One Premier League manager shared with Mail Sport, “There’s no doubting his ability, but has he been consistent enough this season to warrant that move up? And his injury record, for that price, we’d need someone more robust.” This perspective highlights the importance of consistency and resilience in the eyes of potential buyers.
While his journey to professional football demonstrates remarkable resilience, concerns about his physical robustness persist within the footballing world.
Glasner’s Perspective: Unlucky but Resilient
Palace manager Oliver Glasner acknowledges Eze’s challenging season. “Ebbs has had quite a strange season,” Glasner notes. “He was so unlucky in many situations. He had disallowed goals, deflected balls, hitting the post, everything, but he always keeps going.” He emphasizes Eze’s confidence and the vital quality he brings to the team.
Eze’s stunning volley against Arsenal and his pivotal role in the FA Cup quarter-final victory against Fulham served as reminders of his exceptional abilities. His performance at Craven Cottage showcased the skillful trickery honed in the intense football environment of south-east London.
Concrete Catalonia: Forging Resilience
The tough, urban football environment, often called ‘Concrete Catalonia,’ has a reputation for producing Premier League talent. Here, players learn to adapt quickly and develop resilience.
From Greenwich Estate to Premier League Star
Eze’s journey began in the “not so nice part” of Greenwich, the Flamsteed estate. He credits his early experiences there with shaping his football education, playing tirelessly and developing a love for the game. He continues to support the area through his foundation, acknowledging its enduring significance.
Born to devout Nigerian parents, Valentine and Nwugo, Eze has achieved significant success. Bespoke boots symbolize his journey, featuring a constellation design referencing the Royal Observatory and honoring those closest to him.
Faith and Perseverance: Overcoming Rejection
Eze doesn’t seek outward validation. His selection by Thomas Tuchel for England, scoring his first international goal against Latvia, validated the unwavering faith of his family. Rejections from Arsenal, Fulham, Reading, Millwall, Swansea City, Sunderland, and Bristol City fueled his determination. His breakthrough arrived with a trial at QPR.
QPR coach Paul Hall recalls his immediate impression: “Wow, who is this?” Hall, along with Andy Impey and Chris Ramsey, recognized Eze’s raw talent, requiring only professional guidance to refine his skills. He simply lacked positional awareness and needed coaching to unlock his full potential.
QPR: Nurturing Potential
At QPR, Eze felt a sense of belonging and understanding. Training alongside Ravel Morrison further enhanced his creative flair. Chris Ramsey’s timely reminders of his past kept him grounded and motivated.
Crystal Palace, under Dougie Freedman, secured Eze’s signature in 2020 for £19.5 million, surpassing interest from West Ham. Key to the acquisition was Roy Hodgson, who pledged to elevate Eze’s game.
Hodgson’s Influence: A Transformative Bond
Hodgson helped Eze extend his impact on games, improving his performance duration. Eze credits Hodgson with broadening his understanding beyond football, shaping his character. A strong bond developed between them. Eze, a teetotal and well-mannered individual, attended church regularly with teammate Nathan Ferguson.
Hodgson fostered Eze’s competitive spirit, leading to improved skills and rising recognition. His potential for international recognition grew. His cousin, Ego Nwodim, showed support by wearing a Palace shirt on Saturday Night Live.
“Players of his type will always be watched,” says Hodgson, emphasizing that Eze must maintain his standards. “He can take his career as far as he wants while he is prepared to work for it. He’s already shown the ability, skill and mentality.”
Setbacks and Triumphs: The Road to England
Just as Gareth Southgate planned to award Eze his first England cap, an Achilles tendon rupture threatened to derail his progress. Ironically, he received notification of his provisional Euro 2020 squad inclusion while being assessed for the injury.
His faith helped him remain resilient. Two years later, he finally received his long-awaited England call-up.
Eze reflected, “It was a difficult moment but even then I had a huge sense of peace… I believed God showed me that text for a reason, that I was on the right path. Staying rooted allows you to see life through the right lens.”
Looking Ahead: The Business End of the Season
In Shoreditch, East London, Eze discussed his collaboration with New Balance. He acknowledged a season of “ups and downs” due to injuries but expressed excitement for the upcoming games. “It’s the business end of the season now, though, a special time of the season. I’m just excited we still have so much to play for…”
The opportunities are plentiful for Eberechi Eze.