FC Bayern München v Arsenal FC - UEFA Champions League 2026/27 League Phase MD3
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Few Arsenal players have faced more scrutiny over the last week than the man who opened the scoring in Munich on Wednesday night.
Eberechi Eze was taken off at half-time at Nottingham Forest on Sunday after a quiet first 45 minutes, and his replacement, Noni Madueke, went on to score the winner. Joe Cole was among those to weigh in on the former Crystal Palace man, saying that he simply needs to “do more” when he gets his chance.
Against Bayern Munich in the Champions League, he did exactly that, and Declan Rice was quick to stick up for him afterwards.
Declan Rice says Eberechi Eze ‘doesn’t care’ about criticism
Eze came off the bench for the injured Bukayo Saka and scored a superb opener. Rice had his own moment late on, scoring his first goal of the season to earn a 2-2 draw, and he was quick to credit Viktor Gyokeres for setting it up. But speaking to CBS Sports, he made sure Eze got his share of the praise too, saying he was “so happy” for him.
“The goal, and also the way he played after the goal as well. You know, the way he was taking the ball, holding onto the ball, drawing fouls, dribbling past people,” Rice said. “I know Eze doesn’t let the criticism get to him. He doesn’t care. You know, he’s a player that needs to feel the love from the manager and his teammates, and he certainly does feel that.
“But let’s not forget also what he done for us last season, his first season at Arsenal. Massive moments, massive player, won the Premier League. So, look, there’s ups and downs in everyone’s season. Everyone goes through it. He isn’t the first and won’t be the last. So we’re all with him, and tonight it was an incredible performance, especially coming into a game like that, of that magnitude.”
If Eze needs to feel the love from his manager, Mikel Arteta’s comments after the game should help. “Ebz had a great game,” the Arsenal boss said. “Not only with the goal, but the actions, his overall performance and commitment without the ball as well.”
Martin Odegaard also praised Eze after setting up his goal, describing him as a “top player” who “gives everything every single day”. With Saka now facing a spell on the sidelines and Christos Tzolis already out injured, Arsenal will need plenty more from him.