Eberechi Eze's Arsenal career has taken an unexpected turn since his £67.5m move from Crystal Palace. Despite a hat-trick against Spurs in November that promised stardom, the creative midfielder has started only one of Arsenal's last 11 Premier League matches. His diminished playing time reflects broader struggles for both player and club as they search for the right formula.

The tactical shift at Arsenal explains much of Eze's difficulties. Arteta's system demands control, limiting Eze's freedom to roam between lines as he did at Crystal Palace. Data shows his availability between opposition blocks has dropped from 40% to 26%, forcing him into less dangerous areas. Against Spurs on Sunday, he'll need to rediscover the form that saw him score six times in eight appearances against them.

Arsenal's season falters as they search for consistency. Eze's partnership with strikers hasn't clicked, with minimal exchanges of passes even when he features. The upcoming match against his former close club presents both challenge and opportunity. Getting Eze back to his best could provide the spark Arsenal needs, but first Arteta must solve how to utilize his £67.5m asset effectively.