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Arsenal urged to start Eze ahead of Martinelli vs Newcastle

By on September 27, 2025

Eberechi Eze arsenal

Former forward turned pundit Paul Merson has urged Mikel Arteta to start Eberechi Eze over Gabriel Martinelli in Arsenal’s Premier League game against Newcastle United on Sunday.

The Brazilian has been the regular starter on the left flank for the Gunners over the last few years, and Leandro Trossard has featured in a support role. However, both displayed average performances last term, so Arteta’s side opted to buy a new left-sided forward this summer.

Arsenal were linked with numerous names before signing Eze from Crystal Palace. Arsenal have had a tough run of fixtures early in this season, having already played against Manchester United, Liverpool and Manchester City.

Eze’s deal wasn’t finalised when the Gunners travelled to Old Trafford in the opening Premier League game. Arteta didn’t start him against Liverpool and Man City, although he did commence vs Nottingham Forest, Athletic Club and Port Vale in three different competitions.

So, on Sportskeeda, Merson says that he is expecting Arteta wouldn’t start Eze against Newcastle this weekend; instead, Martinelli is likely to commence as he is a disciplined player.

However, Arsenal should be more adventurous and start the frontline of Viktor Gyokeres, Bukayo Saka and Eze. The former Palace star has the ‘X-factor’ and can unlock opposition defence like he did against Man City last weekend.

Arsenal urged to start Eze vs Newcastle

Merson said:

“Arsenal must not sit back in this game, if they do that, Newcastle will score. I’d play Saka, Eze and Viktor Gyokeres as the front-three here but I don’t think Arteta will do that if I’m being honest.

“I have a feeling Gabriel Martinelli will start instead of Eze. He’s a disciplined player and can be useful with his pace. But Eze is the X-factor, he can unlock defences like he showed it against City.”

Eze’s technical prowess and dribbling qualities created problems for Man City’s defence last weekend. Although he, valued at around £48m by Transfermarkt, is comfortable on the left flank, he plays better as a No.10.

Therefore, Arteta could opt to deploy him in the creative midfielder role on Sunday, with Martin Odegaard struggling with fitness problems, starting Martinelli on the left.

Arsenal have started the season with the ambition of finally becoming the English champions. However, they have had a topsy-turvy start, accumulating 10 points from five games.

On the other hand, Liverpool have won all five matches and already have a healthy lead at the top. So, Arsenal can’t afford to drop points against the Magpies on Sunday.