Eberechi Eze’s journey to footballing glory is not just about goals, trophies, or accolades. It’s about grit, resilience, and unshakable faith. Born and raised in a council estate in Greenwich, south-east London, Eze’s early footballing dream was fraught with disappointment. By the age of 18, he had already been released by Arsenal, Fulham, and Reading. Even trials at Bristol City and Sunderland led nowhere, and Millwall bluntly told him: “thanks, but no thanks.”
For many young players, repeated rejection is the end of the road. But Eze refused to let go. He recalls the emotional toll vividly, particularly facing Arsenal after being released at 13. “I remember welling up because of all the emotions,” he said. “I didn’t know how to process it. I had tears ready to pour down my face.” Yet despite the heartbreak, he pressed on—always asking himself, “When’s the next trial?”
A Chance at Redemption: The QPR Breakthrough
The turning point came in 2016 when Queens Park Rangers offered Eze a trial after his unsuccessful stint at Sunderland. At the time, his confidence was shattered. He had even prayed fervently on bunk beds with his brothers, hoping for a contract with Sunderland—only to face more disappointment.
But QPR saw what others didn’t. By 2018, he was a regular in their Championship side, dazzling fans with flair, creativity, and relentless drive. He credits key figures like Chris Ramsey, Andy Impey, Paul Hall, and Les Ferdinand for nurturing his talent and restoring his belief. “They taught me it can’t just be nutmegs. They improved me massively,” he said. That nurturing environment allowed him to transform from a cast-off to a standout talent.
Eze From Championship Star to Premier League Playmaker
Eze’s meteoric rise continued when he sealed a £19.5 million move to Crystal Palace in August 2020. By then, he had scored 20 goals in the Championship and had blossomed into a versatile and dynamic attacking midfielder. Under the guidance of managers like Roy Hodgson, Patrick Vieira, and now Oliver Glasner, Eze has grown in stature and maturity.
This season, he has netted seven goals and provided eight assists in the Premier League. In the FA Cup, he was instrumental—scoring four of Palace’s 13 goals, including the winner in the final against Manchester City. A thunderous strike from outside the box against Aston Villa in the semi-final was a reminder of the raw brilliance he brings. “I feel like the journey I’ve been on has forced me to grow up, improve and be better,” he said, reflecting on his ascent.
Anchored in Faith, Uplifted by Family and Friends
Throughout his career, Eze’s Christian faith has remained a cornerstone of his resilience. “The fact I am in this position, I can only say God thank you,” he shared. He also credits his upbringing and support system—his family, childhood friends, and former mentors—for keeping him grounded.
His younger brother, Chimaechi, now playing for Palace’s U-21 side, draws inspiration from Eze’s persistence. “If I am in that situation, I don’t know if I could have continued,” he admitted. School friend Dajon Golding, now a professional footballer in Scotland, remembers their days in a cage in south-east London: “Ebs always said he would play at a high level… it’s a testament to him that he has achieved it.”
Eze hasn’t forgotten his roots. He recently reached out to Gabriel and Rafael—the two men who taught him to play football in the cage. “They showed me all the skills. I owe so much to them,” he said. He also invited pupils from his old primary school to Palace’s training ground—personally arranging transportation for them.
From Wembley to the World Stage
Eze’s crowning moment came at Wembley as he slotted home the winner in a tense 1-0 victory over Manchester City—securing Crystal Palace’s first major trophy in history. That goal wasn’t just a strike—it was the culmination of years of heartbreak, perseverance, and faith. As he celebrates his success, there is no bitterness for the clubs that let him go. “I don’t look back and blame anyone,” he said. “It made sense for them then. But I’ve learned and grown from it.”
Now 26, Eze is on the verge of becoming a mainstay in England’s national team. With a goal against Latvia in March and a place in the Euro 2024 squad, his story is only beginning. For those who knew the boy from the yellow cage in Greenwich, his FA Cup triumph is more than just a victory—it’s a validation of belief against all odds.
“Words cannot describe how proud I am,” said Golding. “I’ve seen all the highs and lows. And it is breathtaking.”
