Martin Ødegaard has called for greater aggression and directness from Arsenal after the team’s 1-1 draw at Fulham saw them squander a chance to close the gap on Liverpool in the Premier League title race.
LONDON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 08: Martin Odegaard of Arsenal shows dejection afterg the Premier League match between Fulham FC and Arsenal FC at Craven Cottage on December 08, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images
The Arsenal captain spoke candidly after the match, identifying areas for improvement in what was a frustrating afternoon at Craven Cottage.
“We have to focus on ourselves. We don’t care about the other teams,” Ødegaard told Sky Sports. “We did a lot of good things. We have to do more and put the ball in the box more times. Maybe be a bit more direct and aggressive. We could have won it in the end.” The Norwegian’s comments reflect growing concerns over Arsenal’s lack of cutting edge in open play, with their last three goals all coming from set pieces.
Arsenal fell behind in the 11th minute after a defensive lapse. Jakub Kiwior misjudged a ball over his head, allowing Raúl Jiménez to capitalise. William Saliba failed to close down the angle, and David Raya could not stop the shot meant Fulham scored with their only significant chance of the game, despite an xG of just 0.14 overall.
The Gunners eventually equalised in the second half when Saliba tapped in a Declan Rice corner, set up by Kai Havertz.
LONDON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 08: William Saliba of Arsenal celebrates are Bukayo Saka of Arsenal (not pictured) scores a goal, which was later ruled out for offside following a VAR review during the Premier League match between Fulham FC and Arsenal FC at Craven Cottage on December 08, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images
However, Arsenal struggled to break Fulham down in open play. Despite enjoying the lion’s share of possession, their attacks frequently faltered against Fulham’s resilient defensive structure. This has become a pattern for Mikel Arteta’s side, who currently rank 13th in the Premier League for open play xG.
The frustration culminated in the 89th minute when Bukayo Saka’s header from a Gabriel Martinelli cross appeared to seal the win. VAR, however, ruled the goal out for a marginal offside by Martinelli. “We’ve said hundreds of times we have to keep going game by game,” Ødegaard added, striking a note of determination despite the setback.
Arteta’s tactical adjustments were limited by injuries, particularly the absence of Riccardo Calafiori. Jurrien Timber’s versatility was tested as he filled yet another role, while Thomas Partey at right back struggled to connect with Saka and Ødegaard as effectively as the team’s preferred combinations. Kiwior, meanwhile, continues to look short of confidence, and the defensive reshuffle also saw Gabriel’s authority and goal threat missed.
LONDON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 08: Bukayo Saka of Arsenal scores a goal, which was later ruled out for offside, following a VAR review during the Premier League match between Fulham FC and Arsenal FC at Craven Cottage on December 08, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images
Ødegaard’s assessment underlines the broader issues Arsenal face. While set pieces remain a vital source of goals, their struggles to create and convert chances in open play are becoming increasingly evident. The captain’s call for greater directness and aggression highlights the urgency to adapt if Arsenal are to remain in the title race.
The result leaves Arsenal six points behind Liverpool, who remain in commanding form at the top of the table. Arteta will need to address these shortcomings quickly, with a packed festive fixture list offering little respite. “It’s a very long way to go,” Ødegaard reminded supporters.
The road ahead, however, demands immediate improvement in front of goal if Arsenal are to keep pace with their rivals.
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