England’s Eberechi Eze is not worried about criticism ahead of the final group match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup

England forward Eberechi Eze says he has no interest in the criticism that followed his side’s goalless draw against Ghana at the 2026 World Cup. He prefers to concentrate on the only opinions that matter, namely those in the English camp.

England go into Saturday’s final Group L match against Panama eager to clinch top spot with a win despite a frustrating 0-0 draw against Ghana that drew criticism from some supporters unhappy with the team’s lack of attacking threat.

Eze,‌who made his World Cup debut as a second-half substitute against Ghana,‌said ⁠he pays little attention to opinions outside the camp.

«I try not to be too interested in what people say about what we do. We are the ones on the inside, we are the ones doing the work and being in the arena,» Eze said on Thursday.

“We will try to enjoy the bubble we are in and focus on what we are doing… that is the mentality I have,” he added.

The 27-year-old, who played the final 18 minutes against Ghana in his first appearance on the world stage, said patience has been a defining part of his career.

“It’s the mentality I grew up with: staying ready, staying resilient, trusting that the time will come, and being ready to express yourself and give it everything you’ve got,” he said.

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That mentality was reinforced during Arsenal’s title-winning campaign, when Eze had to wait for opportunities before he could make a significant contribution.

«It’s good. It’s the kind of position you want to be able to play. You want to come in and try to influence the game and help us. Every match is difficult and different so you face different challenges. (Ghana) was a tough match to come into,» Eze said.

Eze and England teammates Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice and Noni Madueke arrived in North America following Arsenal’s long-awaited victory in the league.

Eze said he believes success breeds self-confidence.

“When you have players on the team who have won things, it definitely gives you a different kind of confidence and ease and confidence in what you are capable of,” he said.

Far from feeling tired after a demanding club campaign, Eze says the World Cup itself is providing him with all the motivation he needs.

«I love playing football. Of course you need time to rest and take a break, and I’m sure that will come next,» he said.

Away from football, Eze says his wife, an intensive care nurse, helps keep his career in perspective. «She helps me stay grounded and focused on things that are really important. It definitely helps my perspective,» he said.

Published on June 26, 2026