Can Uzun has been dumped, publicly questioned and told he risks becoming his own worst enemy at Eintracht Frankfurt, just as Arsenal have been linked with the 20-year-old Turkey international.
Arsenal’s interest was reported this week, with the Gunners reportedly in contact with the forward’s agency. The same agency also represents Niccolò Tresoldi, striker of “Bruges” club. The timing is awkward because in Germany praise has now turned to criticism.
Uzun moved to Eintracht Frankfurt in 2024 and has scored in five consecutive Bundesliga games to start the 2025/26 season. He has four goals and three assists in six games this term, though those contributions have come in just two games.
Why was Arsenal’s target kept in reserve by Frankfurt?
After starting every game under Adi Hütter, Uzun was left on the bench against Cologne last Friday and was an unused substitute in the 1-0 win. When asked about him, Hütter spoke candidly.
Hütter said: “The sooner Can realizes that football is also a team sport where he can contribute his skills, the bigger his career will be. If he doesn’t realize that, he could be his own worst enemy.” He added: “I also expect consistency and for him to show the ability he has during the week [in training] and in games.”
This is a familiar story. Uzu’s form also dipped last season and he found himself on the sidelines after a coaching change and was publicly criticized by new coach Albert Riera. The Spaniard was later fired and replaced by Hütter.
Riera said: “He knows what to do with and without the ball. If he brings that to the team, then he will play. That goes for all players. The reason some don’t play is because you can be great with the ball, but you’re not good without the ball. With Albert, if you’re not good enough, you won’t play. I’m very clear about that. I want complete players. They have to play both roles.”
Could Uzu’s best position suit Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal?
Works better as a long-backed forward or No.10, but has been used more as a left-back this season. This may explain the inconsistent output. Defensive contribution remains an obvious area of concern, and it’s something both of their managers have hinted at.
In N5 this is important. Arsenal are already looking at a wide range of options after an injury to Saka sent the club back Leipzig’s Antonio Nusa, and they have also been linked with Eli Junior Kroupi, who Bournemouth refused to sell in January.
How much will Can Uzun cost “Arsenal”?
Frankfurt knew for sure that Uzu would be allowed to leave for only 60 million euros in the summer. “Galatasaray” wanted him, but could not justify the fee. Although Markus Krosche has stepped down as director of football, that price tag remains and a change in the sport’s structure could affect how the figure is managed.
Author’s opinion
Uzun and Frankfurt seem like an unhappy marriage, so a move in 2027 cannot be ruled out if problems continue. But Mikel Arteta wouldn’t tolerate a forward not pulling his weight in defence, and that’s a box Uzu has yet to tick. For now, Arsenal can watch and wait.