Eddie Nketiah has opened up about his decision to leave Arsenal for Crystal Palace, citing the need for regular playing time. The 25-year-old striker joined Palace for £25 million in the summer, becoming the club's second most expensive signing. He made an immediate impact, scoring a debut goal against QPR in the Carabao Cup with a clever run and finish.
Nketiah explained that despite his love for Arsenal, where he spent his entire career, he felt he had to prioritise his development. 'At the end of the day, a football player wants to play football,' he said. 'There comes a point when you have to think about your personal development.' He was dropped after earning his first England cap last season and started only one more league game under Mikel Arteta.
At Palace, Nketiah has been deployed in a new role under manager Oliver Glasner, playing as a wide attacking midfielder alongside Eberechi Eze. 'The manager gives us a lot of freedom,' Nketiah said. 'I'm maybe getting a few more touches front facing, which is a strength of mine.' He believes the team's first league win is imminent once relationships click.
Nketiah's friendship with Eze was a factor in his move. The two know each other from youth football and share a Christian faith. 'He's a good guy,' Nketiah said. 'A faithful devout Christian which is similar to myself.' Palace are still seeking their first Premier League win of the season.
