Eberechi Eze prefers playing as a number 10, but he has mainly featured on the left wing since joining Arsenal, where he is yet to establish himself as a regular first choice. The midfielder has struggled to find consistent form, raising questions about how Mikel Arteta intends to use him in the coming months.Eze had opportunities to operate in his favoured role last season when Martin Odegaard struggled with fitness issues. However, the Norwegian remains an important part of Arteta’s plans, leaving Eze facing significant competition for the attacking midfield position.Eze faces competition from OdegaardOdegaard remains Arsenal’s established option as a number 10, and his influence on the team’s attacking play makes it difficult for Eze to displace him. Although Eze wants to play centrally, he must convince Arteta that he can fulfil the tactical responsibilities required in that role.For now, the former Crystal Palace player has been competing for a place on the left wing, where he shares opportunities with Christos Tzolis and Noni Madueke. However, questions remain about whether that position allows him to make the most of his qualities.Eze is naturally attracted to operating centrally, where he can influence attacks and create opportunities. Yet Arteta’s expectations for the number 10 role involve more than attacking contributions, with defensive responsibilities also playing an important part in the manager’s system.(Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)Pardew questions Eze’s suitabilityAlan Pardew believes Eze may struggle to become Arteta’s preferred number 10 because of the defensive demands associated with the role. Speaking via Metro Sports, he explained why he thinks Odegaard currently has an advantage over the Arsenal midfielder.‘In the way that he sets his No.10 up I don’t see Eze getting a lot of action there.‘There’s a real defensive side to that position that he likes that Odegaard does that he doesn’t do.‘I think Arteta doesn’t feel comfortable with that. I think there’s certain games against perhaps lesser opposition where Eze will be given that No.10 shirt.‘But I’ve seen him out on that left-hand side for Crystal Palace a few times and it’s just not him, he’s never going to go outside and whip left-footed crosses in.’Pardew’s assessment suggests Eze may receive opportunities centrally in certain matches, but displacing Odegaard will be difficult. The challenge for Eze is to find a role in which he can contribute consistently while adapting to Arteta’s tactical demands._____________________________________________________________________________________________ADMIN COMMENTSo here are some simple rules which I must insist commenters follow….You agree not to give any personal abuse to other Arsenal fans. Everyone is allowed to hold their own opinions even if you disagree with them. It COSTS NOTHING TO BE POLITE TO OTHER ARSENAL FANS.CALLING ALL ARSENAL FANS! Anyone who would like to contribute an Article or Video opinion piece on JustArsenal, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us through this link…More Stories / Latest NewsAlan Pardew doubts Arsenal man is the right fit for his preferred spot19 October 2026, 20:20Arsenal does not see signing exciting defender as a priority19 October 2026, 19:00Rio Ngumoha offers update on his Liverpool future amidst Arsenal interest19 October 2026, 18:00The post Alan Pardew doubts Arsenal man is the right fit for his preferred spot appeared first on Just Arsenal News.