Dropped from Arsenal, how Eberechi Eze kept dreaming when football told him no.

Eberechi Eze's football journey has been marked by repeated rejections from various clubs, yet he persevered, driven by faith and a unique playing style. His story highlights the importance of resilience, self-belief, and prioritizing personal growth amidst external pressures, ultimately leading to success with Crystal Palace and the England national team.

Early Football Development

• 00:01:32 Born in Greenwich, South London, Eze developed his unique football style in local cages, characterized by creativity and improvisation due to limited space. This environment fostered a strong mentality of resilience and the ability to overcome setbacks, crucial for his future career.

Arsenal Release & Resilience

• 00:04:00 At age 8, Eze joined his beloved Arsenal, but was released at 13 due to perceived defensive weaknesses. This early rejection was emotionally devastating, but his family's unwavering support and his deep faith helped him overcome the setback and continue pursuing his football dream.

Trials & QPR

• 00:12:40 Eze faced multiple rejections from various clubs throughout his teenage years, leading him to consider abandoning football. A trial with Queens Park Rangers marked a turning point, where his unique style was appreciated and nurtured. This environment allowed him to excel and eventually propel him to the professional level.

Crystal Palace & England

• 00:15:49 After excelling at QPR, Eze signed with Crystal Palace in 2020, eventually achieving his dream of playing in the Premier League. His exceptional performances garnered recognition, leading to call-ups to the England national team, culminating in an appearance at the Euro 2024 final.

Faith & Self-Belief

• 00:32:11 Eze's message to aspiring footballers is to trust in God, be obedient to his will, and avoid seeking validation from others. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on personal growth and striving to be the best version of oneself, a philosophy that guided him through numerous challenges and ultimately led to success.