Martin Odegaard is the primary creative force in Arsenal’s midfield, and he is expected to lead the team in both assists and chances created.
The Norwegian secured a permanent move to the Emirates after convincing the club that he had the potential to develop into a key player. Since then, he has been tasked with consistently improving his overall contributions, particularly in terms of goals and assists, as each season progresses.
Having been part of the squad since 2021—initially joining on loan from Real Madrid—Odegaard is well accustomed to the demands and expectations at the club. His experience within the team and familiarity with the league should, in theory, allow him to continue performing at a high level.
Over the past two seasons, Odegaard has been instrumental in Arsenal’s push for the Premier League title. During the 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 campaigns combined, he scored 23 goals and provided 17 assists, proving to be a vital contributor to the team’s attacking play. His impact during this period was crucial as Arsenal attempted to end their long wait for a league title.
However, an important question now arises: can he replicate that level of performance in the seasons ahead?
So far this term, Odegaard has struggled to match his previous output. In 21 league appearances, he has registered just two goals and four assists. This represents a notable decline, though it can be partially attributed to the injury setback he suffered earlier in the season. Nevertheless, his reduced influence raises concerns over whether he can still deliver at the highest level on a consistent basis.
As Arsenal’s main creative presence in midfield, Odegaard carries significant responsibility in dictating play and unlocking opposition defences. If his performances continue to decline, the club may need to consider whether he remains the right player to lead their midfield or if they should look for a successor who can provide a greater attacking return.
Arsenal must carefully assess whether Odegaard is merely experiencing a temporary dip in form or if he has already peaked. This decision could be crucial in shaping their long-term midfield strategy and ambitions for future success.
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Not at all IMO. I think the disruptions with injuries upfront has had an effect. He needs a bit of continuity with the same players around him.
Also, not having an out-and-out striker to put chances away is also a factor.
Spot on Kia. I believe he is a very intelligent player who is continually learning and also willing to put in the effort to improve parts of his game and be even better than what we’ve seen from him so far.
Kia, you are 200%76 correct. A center forward will unlock the potential of our forwards
Ridiculous assumption by article writer and as Kia mentions above, there are many reasons not down to him why perhaps his output has dropped a little this season. Some people are far to quick to right off our players.
It’s difficult to assess Odegaard’s performances without considering the players around him. He hasn’t had Saka and White with whom he formed an excellent relationship in the two previous seasons.
Secondly, and this is just speculation on my part, I don’t think Odegaard has fully overcome the effects of that injury he had. We used to associate him with good in and around the box. These days he doesn’t even shoot properly. My guess is that it has something to do with that injury. He has also played a lot of minutes since returning without much rest.
One thing you can’t question about him is his work rate. What Odegaard does to initiate our press is remarkable. There’s no attacking midfielder in world football that I know of who presses like Odegaard.
*good shooting
Odegard is still doing well and perfect for our midfield. Injuries basically have disrupted Arsenal rhythm this season.
What?!?
I notice that Odegaard has been having a good International week.
Now lets hope he can start producing that at a more consistent level for his club. 😉👍