In a dramatic turn of events that will send shockwaves through south London, Eberechi Eze — the former cult hero of Crystal Palace — unleashed the full force of his ambition and allegiance towards his new club, Arsenal, after burying his old team with a decisive strike.
On Sunday (26 October 2025), Eze secured the Gunners’ 1-0 Premier League triumph over his former side with a thunderous volley in the 39th minute, converting a loose ball after a set-piece.
The scenario carried heavy symbolic weight: Eze — whose five-year tenure at Palace culminated with them lifting their first ever major trophy, the FA Cup in May 2025 — now finds himself the protagonist in sending that very club into another defeat. Immediately after scoring, Eze kept his celebration muted — a nod perhaps to his former relationship with Palace — but the real shock came later, when he addressed the media with a comment that left Palace faithfuls reeling.
🎙️ THE SHOCKING STATEMENT
In his post-match comments, Eze stated:
> “I’ve worn this shirt [Arsenal] because I believe in winning; I’ve turned the page and I’m here to leave a mark. The past is special, yes. But right now I’m all in.”
While he balanced respect for Palace with a word of gratitude for his time there, the underlying tone was clear — he has moved on, fully committed, and with fresh colours in mind.
🔥 WHY THIS MATTERS
1. Personal narrative reshaped: Eze was the man who delivered Palace their historic FA Cup win; now he is the man who delivered Arsenal victory over them. His story has come full circle.
2. Loyalty vs. ambition: This moment frames a familiar football conflict — loyalty to a former club versus the ambition to advance. Eze’s message couldn’t be clearer: he’s chosen.
3. Set-piece supremacy: The goal came from a rehearsed Arsenal set-piece: free-kick by Declan Rice, header by Gabriel Magalhaes, and volley by Eze in the box. It underlines Arsenal’s new identity and Eze’s role within it.
4. Message sent to Palace fans: The “shock” isn’t just the goal itself, but the tone of the statement — Eze isn’t just playing for Arsenal; he’s invested.
📊 WHAT NEXT?
For Arsenal, this victory extends their lead at the top of the Premier League table, sending a clear message to rivals Manchester City and Liverpool.
For Crystal Palace, it’s another reminder of what they lost — and how difficult it is to replace a player of Eze’s flair, control, and composure under pressure.
For Eze, this may just be the beginning of a defining chapter. Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta called it “a magic moment,” praising the 26-year-old’s discipline and composure in front of goal.
🎯 FINAL WORD
Eberechi Eze’s goal against his former club wasn’t just a strike on the pitch — it was a bold declaration of future intent. His statement signals that his allegiance has fully switched colours.
Crystal Palace fans — those hugs and celebrations you shared last season now feel bittersweet. He may still honour where he came from, but make no mistake: he is no longer one of you. He is now Arsenal’s weapon.
