Few players in the modern game embody their manager’s philosophy as fully as Martin Ødegaard does under Mikel Arteta. The Norwegian has become more than just a creator or technician. He is the metronome of Arsenal’s system, the captain tasked with translating complex tactics into consistent performances. As Arsenal continue their transformation from title challengers to genuine contenders, Ødegaard’s role has never been more critical. The 2024/25 campaign, however, brought both growth and new challenges that tested his consistency, durability and influence in a side still evolving around him.
Season Review
Martin Ødegaard’s 2024/25 season at Arsenal was one marked by both challenges and moments of leadership that underscored his importance to the club. As Arsenal’s captain, much of the responsibility to guide the team fell on his shoulders. However, the season saw a dip in his usual attacking output, with six goals and eleven assists across 45 appearances, marking his lowest tally since his first full campaign under Mikel Arteta. Injuries disrupted his rhythm, and Arsenal’s struggles to find a consistent striker meant that Ødegaard often lacked the sharp final ball that would highlight his playmaking skills.
Despite the statistical downturn, Ødegaard’s presence remained a key factor in Arsenal’s midfield. He remained a constant in the big games, and while his influence in the final third wavered, his control in deeper areas and calmness on the ball helped steady the team during key phases of the season. His defensive organisation and understanding of pressing triggers often went unnoticed in highlight reels, but inside the club, his intelligence and voice were considered essential.
Tactical Fit
Odegaard scores in Arsenal's 5-1 win over Manchester City (Credit: Justin Setterfield/ Getty Images).
Ødegaard scores in Arsenal's 5-1 win over Manchester City (Credit: Justin Setterfield/ Getty Images).
From a tactical perspective, Ødegaard is central to Mikel Arteta’s approach. His vision and understanding of space allow him to direct play and influence how Arsenal control matches. One of his most important roles is how he positions himself off the ball. By intelligently steering opposing teams’ attacks into wider areas, he helps Arsenal protect the central zones where they prefer to build their own attacks. This defensive contribution is often overlooked but vital in Arteta’s system.
Ødegaard’s ability to receive the ball under pressure and maintain possession helps Arsenal sustain their high tempo and dominance in midfield. Even in games where his attacking statistics may not stand out, his work rate and leadership on the pitch often set the tone for the team. He also acts as a mentor to younger midfielders, guiding their positioning and movement in line with Arteta’s tactical demands.
There were signs late in the season that Ødegaard was regaining sharpness. His passing range widened again, and his involvement in Arsenal’s combinations on the edge of the box became more decisive. He remained a top contributor in metrics like progressive passes and passes into the final third, showing that his creative instincts were still intact despite the drop in direct goal involvement. With better support around him, especially in terms of movement ahead of the ball, his output is likely to rebound naturally.
Future Role
Looking forward, Ødegaard’s future at Arsenal remains secure but not without potential challenges. The club has been linked with midfield reinforcements such as Martín Zubimendi, which could add competition for central roles. However, Ødegaard’s combination of creativity and leadership makes him an integral figure in the squad’s core. His ability to inspire teammates and influence games in tight situations is something Arteta values highly. It’s also worth noting that his role could evolve slightly if Arsenal recruit a deeper-lying playmaker, allowing Ødegaard to operate closer to the final third again.
Martin Zubimendi, Arsenal's future midfielder (Credit: Catherine Steenkeste/ Getty Images).
Martin Zubimendi, Arsenal's future midfielder (Credit: Catherine Steenkeste/ Getty Images).
The coming season will require Ødegaard to maintain his fitness and consistency to continue leading Arsenal’s midfield. With younger players emerging and the squad expected to grow stronger, his role will likely shift towards a blend of playing and mentoring. His experience in high-pressure matches both domestically and in Europe will be vital as Arsenal aim to build on last season’s near successes.
Final Word
In conclusion, Martin Ødegaard remains a key piece of Arsenal’s midfield puzzle. His 2024/25 season may not have been his most productive statistically, but his tactical importance and leadership qualities underline why he continues to wear the captain’s armband. As the club prepares for another push at major trophies, Ødegaard’s influence both on and off the pitch will be crucial to Arsenal’s ambitions.
Importance to Future Goals: 8.5/10
Ødegaard’s captaincy and technical qualities place him at the heart of Arteta’s vision. His consistency and final third impact dropped in 2024–25, but the underlying tactical importance remains. With improved squad balance and his leadership role secured, he is set to be integral to the next chapter of Arsenal’s evolution.