Captain Martin Odegaard is also a doubt after being withdrawn early with a shoulder problem. That almost certainly means a first club appearance for Eze at Anfield, and the opportunity to make an impact in a game already deemed pivotal to the title race.
Eze favours a central midfield role but is also adept at playing on either flank. Arteta now faces a decision whether to deploy him in the middle or use him as a straight replacement for his key man.
Saka has long been deemed pivotal to his side’s hopes of challenging for major silverware and has, at times, been perceived as undroppable for his Spanish manager. Last season, he required surgery after injuring his right hamstring in December, keeping him out for over three months.
Many fans blamed the injury on the player being overused. His mentality could now be tested, though, if Eze were to come in and make an instant impact during his absence.
Given the fee involved and the decisive nature with which Arsenal moved to scupper the Spurs deal, it’s inconceivable that Eze has been signed as a squad player. His presence now risks disrupting Saka, who has just under two years remaining on his current deal.
The additions of Eze, Noni Madueke, Martin Zubimendi and Viktor Gyokeres have undoubtedly strengthened Arteta’s squad ahead of the new campaign. Keeping them all happy, however, may just prove one of his biggest tasks yet.