Eberechi Eze: A Premier League Star is Born

The rise of Eberechi Eze has been praised by fans and pundits from across the world. Still only just 24 years of age, the Crystal Palace midfielder has made himself known in the Premier league for his insane dribbling skills, creativity and eye for goal. 

Now one of the key faces of New Balance Football, and an inspiration for the next generation in the UK, we have decided to take a look back at how Eze became the player he is today.

Eze’s Humble Beginnings

Eze was born in Greenwich, Greater London. When asked about his upbringing, he recently quoted: 

“There are nice parts of Greenwich, and there are not so nice parts. I grew up in the not so nice part.   

But the first place we’d go to after school would be the cage. We’d stay there until our parents called us in, not eating anything, but just playing all day and night. There wasn’t really anything else to do. But that’s where the love comes from. 

At the time, you don’t realise it’s actually how you’re learning your trade.”

To add to Eze’s challenges, he grew up in a single-parent family where he and his siblings had to rely on their mother for support . Eze has credited his mother for shaping him into the determined person he is today.

Unwanted by Many, Treasured by One

Eze’s world came crashing down when he was at the tender age of 13. Despite being seen as a promising talent for the Gunners, he was released by the North London club.

Upon the bad news, Eze didn’t give up on his dreams. He instead joined the academies of Fulham, Reading and Millwall, where he continued to develop his immense skills and footballing ability in these respective youth academies. 

Upon featuring for Millwall’s Under 18’s and reserves side in the 2015-16 season, he was once again disappointed by the club’s decision to not offer him a professional contract.

Unwanted by many as a teenager, it ultimately proved to be a blessing in disguise for Eze. A short trial with Queens Park Rangers at the time allowed him to catch the eye of the club’s technical director Chris Ramsey. 

Shortly after signing, QPR gave the youngster his first opportunity to show the world his talents at first team level, where he has now developed into the skillful, fan favourite player he is today. 

A true inspiration for the countless academy players who are released in the UK every year. 

Eze’s Boots of Choice

July 2021 saw Eze sign a major deal with New Balance football, making him a brand ambassador for the brand. The Palace midfielder now works closely with the brand to design and develop the next generation of football footwear.

The Palace midfielder’s preferred boots are currently the New Balance Furon V7. The boots that stand for explosive speed and attacking play by New Balance, they’re also worn by other Premier League stars such as Raheem Sterling and Bukayo Saka. 

The Furon V7 no doubt has many contenders within the Speed boot category, but the combination of lightweight technology and lifestyle inspired designs (including a recent collaboration with Stone Island) makes it an offering that deserves close attention right now. 

Tech specs include a hypoknit upper which is a lightweight knit offering a lockdown sensation and a grippy texture on the ball. An offset lacing system means that the striking zone is expanded without the distraction of centralised laces. Finally, a chevron stud design gives a combination of straight-line and multi-directional speed support. 

No wonder why Eze has opted in with New Balance. Keep your eyes peeled on the young baller on and off the pitch, as we continue to expect big things to come.