Arsenal delivered a statement performance in the FA Cup fourth round, dismantling Wigan Athletic 4-0 at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday night (15/02/2026). At the heart of the dominant display was Eberechi Eze, whose creativity and attacking intent powered the Gunners from midfield. Yet despite the emphatic victory, manager Mikel Arteta issued a clear message: this level of performance must become the standard.
Arsenal Dominate Wigan from the First Whistle
Playing at home in front of a packed Emirates crowd, Arsenal immediately imposed their tempo. The Gunners controlled 73 percent of possession and registered 17 shots, six of which were on target. The relentless pressure paid off early and decisively.
Noni Madueke opened the scoring in the 11th minute, finishing off a well-constructed move that sliced through Wigan’s defensive line. Just seven minutes later, Gabriel Martinelli doubled the lead with a clinical strike after another incisive attacking sequence. The third goal came courtesy of an unfortunate own goal by Jack Hunt in the 23rd minute, before Gabriel Jesus added the fourth in the 27th minute to cap a blistering first-half performance.
By halftime, the contest was effectively over. Arsenal’s high pressing, quick passing combinations, and vertical transitions overwhelmed Wigan, leaving the visitors unable to recover.
Eberechi Eze: The Creative Engine in Midfield
While the goalscorers grabbed headlines, Eberechi Eze was the orchestrator behind Arsenal’s attacking fluency. Operating in an advanced midfield role, Eze recorded two brilliant assists, both originating from central areas where he exploited gaps between Wigan’s defensive and midfield lines.
For Madueke’s opener, Eze delivered a perfectly weighted through ball that split the defense. Minutes later, he demonstrated composure and vision again, unlocking space for Martinelli to finish confidently. His willingness to take risks in the final third, combined with sharp decision-making, transformed Arsenal’s possession dominance into tangible goals.
Eze’s movement between the lines and ability to accelerate play were particularly noticeable. He consistently received the ball in tight spaces, turned quickly, and drove forward, forcing Wigan’s defenders into reactive positions. It was the kind of performance that reminded fans why Arsenal invested in him.
A Season of Challenges for Eze
The 2025/2026 season has not been entirely smooth for Eze since his move from Crystal Palace last summer. Despite flashes of brilliance, he has struggled at times to cement a permanent place in Arsenal’s starting XI.
Only days before the FA Cup tie, Eze was substituted at halftime in a Premier League match against Brentford, a decision that raised questions about his consistency. Competition for midfield spots has been fierce, and adapting to Arsenal’s tactical demands under Arteta has required patience.
However, Arteta viewed Eze’s display against Wigan as the perfect response.
“The goals were outstanding, and the intention he showed was exactly what we need,” Arteta said after the match. “The risks he takes in the final third, the number of shots he attempts — that’s very positive. That’s what I want from him.”
The message was both praise and challenge. Arteta appreciates Eze’s talent, but he wants regular impact rather than occasional brilliance.
Confidence Boost at a Crucial Time
Since scoring a memorable hat-trick against Tottenham Hotspur in November, Eze had not found the back of the net. While his overall contributions remained valuable, the lack of goals had slightly dimmed his attacking output.
Against Wigan, even without scoring, Eze rediscovered his spark. His assists and overall influence are expected to serve as a major confidence boost heading into a demanding stretch of fixtures.
Arteta emphasized how important such performances are for creative players. “Players like him need to feel they are creating something,” the Spanish manager explained. “I’m very happy with what he showed.”
With Martin Ødegaard still sidelined due to injury, Eze’s creative responsibility has grown significantly. Arsenal need midfielders who can unlock defenses, particularly as the schedule intensifies across multiple competitions.
Arsenal’s Quadruple Dream Still Alive
Arsenal’s commanding FA Cup victory keeps them firmly in contention on multiple fronts. The Gunners currently sit comfortably at the top of the Premier League table, have reached the Carabao Cup final, advanced to the FA Cup fourth round, and secured a place in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16.
Such ambitions require depth, consistency, and resilience. Squad rotation will be inevitable, and players like Eze must step up regularly if Arsenal are to sustain their momentum.
“Eberechi has already played a big role,” Arteta added. “He’s featured in many games and will continue to do so.”
The manager’s faith is evident, but so is the expectation. Arsenal are chasing history, and there is little room for inconsistency in a season that could define Arteta’s tenure.
Conclusion: A Turning Point for Eze?
Eberechi Eze’s standout performance in Arsenal’s 4-0 FA Cup victory over Wigan Athletic may prove to be a turning point in his season. His two assists, fearless attacking approach, and creative spark highlighted the qualities that convinced Arsenal to bring him to North London.
Yet the real challenge begins now. As Mikel Arteta made clear, one brilliant night is not enough. Arsenal’s pursuit of silverware across four competitions demands sustained excellence. If Eze can replicate this level of influence consistently, he will not only secure his place in the starting XI but also become a central figure in Arsenal’s quest for trophies.
For now, the signs are encouraging. The Emirates witnessed a glimpse of Eze at his best — confident, decisive, and daring. If this performance marks the beginning of a sustained run of form, Arsenal’s season could become even more special.
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