Eberechi Eze Could Bring Manchester United a Unique Dimension No Other Player Offers
Eberechi Eze, donning a Crystal Palace jacket, watches as fireworks light up the background.
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag faces a pressing challenge: deciding on his ideal front three. With United managing only two goals in their first three Premier League games, the anticipated return of Rasmus Højlund from injury is eagerly awaited. Højlund has been out since July due to a hamstring issue.
In his absence, Bruno Fernandes and Joshua Zirkzee have both stepped into the striker role, with Zirkzee making his debut in United’s 3-0 loss to Liverpool. That match also marked Alejandro Garnacho’s first start of the season, playing on the right wing while Marcus Rashford operated on the left.
Many United fans believe that Amad, Højlund, and Garnacho should be the go-to attacking trio, with Rashford being left out. Over the summer, United made adjustments to their wide options, permanently transferring Facundo Pellistri and loaning Jadon Sancho. The current wing options consist of Rashford, Garnacho, Amad, and Antony, who has not started a game for United since May.
After two years at the club, Antony’s performances have frustrated many fans, and with just one substitute appearance this season, it appears Ten Hag may be losing confidence in the Brazilian. Reports suggest United could look to sign a new winger next summer, potentially phasing Antony out within the year. One name being linked with United is Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze, 26, who could be a valuable addition to their attack.
Since moving from QPR to Palace in 2020, Eze’s career has seen a sharp upward trajectory. He’s hit double digits in goals for the past two Premier League seasons, made his England debut, and even represented the national team at a major tournament.
A fan-favorite in Fantasy Premier League, Eze’s ability to both score and create goals has garnered attention. He is one of the most in-demand players not currently playing for a ‘big six’ Premier League club.
Eze’s versatility is a key asset. He can play as both an attacking midfielder and a winger, usually on the left, making him a dynamic threat from multiple positions. He excels at dribbling, helping his team progress up the field, and is a constant creative force in the final third.
According to Transfermarkt, Eze featured 16 times as an attacking midfielder and nine times as a left winger for Palace last season. He netted six goals from the center and five from the wing, proving his effectiveness in both roles.
This adaptability makes Eze an appealing prospect for United, as they currently lack a player who is equally comfortable as a No.10 and out wide. Fernandes, United’s main playmaker, has occasionally played on the right but is far more suited to a central role.
With concerns about Rashford’s consistency and Garnacho’s potential to take on the right-wing role, United may look to bolster their left side in the near future. Eze could offer a solution, giving them a player capable of excelling in both the No.10 and wide positions, enhancing their attacking flexibility.
Teams like Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester City have all recently acquired players who can operate in multiple attacking roles. Liverpool, in particular, have successfully integrated forwards who are equally impactful both out wide and through the middle.
