Eberechi Eze has opened up about the significant influence that legendary footballers Thierry Henry and Ronaldinho have had on his career. In an eye-opening interview, the 26-year-old Crystal Palace star shared how he devoted hours to watching highlight reels of these exceptional talents on platforms like YouTube. Their skills and flair not only provided inspiration but also served as a guiding force for Eze as he navigated his journey in professional football. The days spent studying matches and techniques of Henry and Ronaldinho ignited Eze’s passion and motivated him to cultivate a successful career in the sport.
Eze’s footballing journey began in various youth setups, including stints at renowned clubs like Arsenal, Reading, and Fulham before securing a scholarship at Millwall. However, the road was not straightforward as he faced challenges, including being released prior to being offered professional terms. Nevertheless, Eze’s talent did not go unnoticed. Queens Park Rangers recognized his potential and brought him to Loftus Road, where he spent four dynamic years. The impressive performances during his time there caught the attention of Crystal Palace, who signed him in 2020, marking a pivotal moment in his career.
His time with Crystal Palace has been transformative, with Eze emerging as a key player for the club. Known for his skillful plays and creativity, he has become one of the team’s main threats in attacking positions. His impressive performances have not only solidified his place at Palace but have also led to his inclusion in the England national team, where he is eager to add to his nine caps under the helm of new manager Thomas Tuchel. Eze attributes his current success to years of hard work and dedication, compounded by a deep admiration for the likes of Henry and Ronaldinho, who embodied the joy of playing football.
In his engaging discussion with the program *Sign Up – Into Football*, available on TNT Sports and discovery+, Eze expressed, “Henry was number one. Henry and Ronaldinho. Those were the two on YouTube you were watching skills.” He reminisces about growing up watching these players, appreciating not just their talent but the passion they exhibited on the field. This admiration has been further personified in his father, who played an indispensable role during Eze’s youth. He fondly recalls how his father would take him and his brothers to practice penalties at the park, instilling foundational skills that would aid his development.
Despite his rise in the Premier League, Eze remains humble and continues to appreciate the talents of others in the league. He admires Manchester City’s Phil Foden, stating, “Just the way he plays, the way he moves. You can see his talent level is insane.” This humility and respect for the sport and its talents is indicative of Eze’s character both on and off the pitch.
As Crystal Palace faces challenges in the current season, sitting 15th in the Premier League and only five points above the relegation zone, Eze maintains his focus on improvement. As they prepare for their upcoming match against Leicester City, he reflects on the impact Oliver Glasner has had on the team since taking the helm. Eze believes Glasner has instilled new ideas and heightened intensity within the squad, emphasizing the importance of growing not just in football skills, but also personally.
Looking ahead, Eze is determined to maximize his potential, expressing, “I don’t know where the ceiling is… I want to take it as far as I can.” As Crystal Palace gears up for their match against Leicester City, viewers are reminded of the match’s availability on TNT Sports, highlighting the crucial importance of the ongoing season for both the club and Eze as they strive for success and a brighter future in football.
