Eberechi Eze: Arsenal reject who destroyed Spurs now Nigeria's second most Googled star

Eberechi Eze’s story is one of resilience, redemption, and rising stardom, now shining brighter than ever among Nigerian football fans.

Once rejected by Arsenal, the 27-year-old former Crystal Palace star delivered a stunning hat-trick against Tottenham Hotspur for the Gunners, igniting his journey to become the second most-searched sports personality by Nigerians in 2025.

His Nigerian heritage and electric form have captured the hearts of fans back home, driving a surge in online searches that places him just behind Natasha Akpoti as the most searched Nigerian figure in Google’s Year in Search 2025.

The playmaker, who finished seventh among sports personalities overall, stands out as the only athlete in the top Nigerian search rankings.

His journey from Arsenal academy hopeful to Crystal Palace’s vital attacking force showcases immense grit, overcoming repeated setbacks, injuries, and doubts.

Almost two decades after donning the Arsenal shirt in youth football, Eze now thrives with the club that once overlooked him.

His hat-trick against Tottenham, who looked poised to sign him in the summer, signals his arrival among the Premier League’s elite and shines a spotlight on his ambition to help Palace compete at the highest level.

For Nigerian football fans, Eze’s rise is more than just goals and glory; it reflects a victorious story of perseverance and cultural pride, securing his place as a beloved figure and a beacon of hope for aspiring players nationwide.

Eze, who has scored four goals and two assists in 13 matches , will be looking to help the Gunners continue their brilliant form when they face in-form Aston Villa at the Villa Park this weekend.