Arsenal are currently leading the race for the title in the Premier League. However, the role of team captain Martin Odegaard has changed a lot at the club. The Norwegian midfielder was an integral player in the squad of Mikel Arteta. But he now faces a real fight to show that he is still a vital part of the team’s core plans.
How Martin Odegaard became no longer “influential”
Expert analysts have recently questioned the impact of the captain. As per reports, former players believe Martin Odegaard may be nearing the end of his football journey in North London. Former Chelsea defender Frank Leboeuf said the midfielder no longer shows the spark he once had. “I’ve always liked Martin Odegaard and the way he plays because he’s very elegant, but he’s not influential anymore. He’s there to start the action, to distribute the ball horizontally. But with Eze right now the moves are not the same.” This opinion points to a clear concern about his style. He now prefers safe, sideways passes rather than sharp forward runs.
Meanwhile, Mikel Arteta has started to look at other options. The manager has often turned to Eberechi Eze to drive the attack with more speed and purpose. In addition, he has tested Bukayo Saka in a central midfield role. This change shows that the coaching staff want a player who can make a stronger and more direct impact on the pitch.
🚨Arsenal player Martin Odegaard has no intention of leaving the Emirates Stadium in the summer.
The player has been urged by football legends including Leboeuf to leave the club following frustrating individual season.
[Source: Football London] pic.twitter.com/kryzghwCcd
— Sport Trends247 (@SportTrends247) February 26, 2026
The Rise of Eberechi Eze Under Mikel Arteta
The captain’s numbers have fallen sharply this season. He has scored just one goal in twenty-seven games in all competitions. He has also struggled for rhythm because of repeated fitness setbacks. Ongoing knee, ankle, and muscle injuries have disrupted his flow, limiting him to fewer than half of Arsenal’s matches. Even when fully fit, he has often started on the bench. Recently, he was used only as a late substitute in the intense North London Derby in the Premier League.
In contrast, Eberechi Eze has impressed since joining the club. In the North London Derby, Eze replaced Odegaard in the starting lineup and scored twice to guide Arsenal to victory. That display built his case as the better choice for the number ten role. Eze brings a more direct and forward-thinking style that suits attackers such as Viktor Gyokeres.
In addition, Mikel Arteta has adjusted the team’s tactical setup. The current plan focuses on controlling tempo and keeping the ball. This change has limited the captain’s natural influence on games. Still, despite the criticism, he continues to lead in certain metrics. In one recent match, he completed 107 passes and created seven chances. That output underlines his clear quality, even as he fights to reclaim a regular place in the starting eleven.
Transfer Rumours Involving Martin Odegaard
Ongoing rumours suggest that the midfielder could be thinking about leaving. As per reports, claims say the player asked his agent to begin talks with Manchester United. These rumours have grown due to claims of “broken promises” and rising tension between Martin Odegaard and Mikel Arteta. The captain is said to feel “deeply unappreciated” by the board and coaching staff. He has also been linked with major European clubs such as FC Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Bayern Munich.
At the same time, other reports claim the player does not plan to leave the club. He is focused on fighting for his place and helping the team win trophies. The manager still rates his captain highly and sees him as a key part of the squad.
Final Thoughts
Experts claim Martin Odegaard is no longer influential at the Emirates. Eberechi Eze’s rise also creates a major selection headache for Arteta. Meanwhile, despite Manchester United transfer rumours, the captain remains determined to stay. It will be interesting to see what the future holds for the playmaker this summer.
As featured on GoonerNews.com
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