Eze “ready to play big role,” says Arteta as Arsenal reach FA Cup fifth round | OneFootball

Arsenal’s pursuit of silverware remains firmly on track after a ruthless 4–0 dismantling of Wigan Athletic in the FA Cup at the Emirates Stadium.

Goals from Noni Madueke, Gabriel Martinelli, an own goal from Jack Hunt, and Gabriel Jesus gave Mikel Arteta’s side a commanding advantage that left little doubt over the outcome.

The Arsenal manager was full of praise for his side, particularly Eberechi Eze, who responded impressively after being substituted at half-time in the 1–1 Premier League draw against Brentford.

“Yes, some superb goals and his intentions. I think the risk that he took in the final third, the amount of shots that he tried to take as well, and I think that’s really positive – that’s what we want from him.

“Those players need those moments, and especially when we talk about creative players, they need to feel that they are producing those moments. I’m very happy with that.”

Despite the comfort of the scoreline, Arsenal’s afternoon was not without concern. Injuries once again shaped both selection and in-game planning.

Martin Ødegaard was absent after picking up a knock against Brentford, while Riccardo Calafiori’s involvement ended before kick-off due to a warm-up issue. Ben White then became the latest worry after being forced off during the second half. Arteta confirmed all three would require further assessment, acknowledging the growing strain on his squad.

“Martin picked that knock in the action where we conceded the goal against Brentford, and he wasn’t fit today. Riccardo and Ben are the only doubts; we have to wait and see over the next 48 hours,” he said.

The manager admitted the pattern has been a familiar one this season, with issues moving through different areas of the pitch and forcing constant adjustment.

“Before it was the strikers, then the defenders, now the midfielders. But we are coping. We need players back not just for numbers, but for different options.”

Those circumstances placed even greater emphasis on adaptability. When Calafiori was ruled out late, Arsenal were forced into a reshuffle. Myles Lewis-Skelly was asked to step into midfield at short notice, while Bukayo Saka adjusted his role with minimal warning.

Arteta highlighted the moment as a learning point: “Be ready, because your role can change any minute. Bukayo [Saka] was made aware very, very late, but if you understand the global intentions of the team, you can perform — and I think he had a really good game.”

Martinelli’s strike also carried historical weight, making him the first Arsenal player since Ian Wright in 1994–95 to score 10 or more goals in cup and European competitions in a single season.

Arteta’s satisfaction was clear: “I’m very happy with the result and especially the performance — the way we started the game. We scored some very, very good goals.”

With Arsenal top of the Premier League, into the Champions League last 16, through to the FA Cup fifth round and awaiting an EFL Cup final, the stakes could scarcely be higher. Noise will always surround Arteta’s side, but performances like this – authoritative, adaptable and confident – suggest they still have everything to play for.