Arsenal have maintained their position at the top of the table after a hard-fought win against Chelsea on the first day of the month. The Gunners won 2-1 against the Blues. However, Yaya Toure argued that the squad significantly felt the absence of Martin Odegaard during the match. He has also noted the creative shortage in such a high-profile match.
Yaya Toure considers absence of Martin Odegaard “a huge miss”
As per reports, the Ivorian legend shared his views on the recent London derby. He appeared as a guest on a football analysis show after the match. He pointed out the captain as a brilliant player whose presence is vital for the team’s structure. Yaya Toure explained that the midfielder excels at moving between the lines to link play.
He stated, “Martin Odegaard, the captain, is a brilliant player and for me he’s a huge miss. He plays between the lines, he moves very well, I love this type of player”. Without this creative spark, the team seemed to struggle to play freely in open play.
The former midfielder also felt that the team’s lack of flow in this match came down to this missing link. He clearly believes that Martin Odegaard is the main driving force behind the side’s attacks.
Former Manchester City star Yaya Toure has spoken highly of Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard, describing him as a player he truly admires. pic.twitter.com/7XcnCdeEMb
— The Update NGs (@TheUpdateNGs) March 2, 2026
Yaya Toure critiques the match tactics and gives thoughts on the title race.
The former Manchester City star expressed his disappointment with the lack of attacking variety during the derby. All three goals in the match originated from corner kicks. The pundit found it unusual for such a high-profile fixture. He noted that fans expect a more flourishing game with more chances created through passing.
Meanwhile, Yaya Toure predicted that Manchester City will eventually overtake the leaders to win the Premier League. He believes the reigning champions possess a psychological edge due to their calmness and experience in tight races. Currently, Arsenal lead by five points, though their rivals hold a game in hand.
🗣 "I'm a bit disappointed… three goals from set-pieces, a bit strange for a derby!"
Yaya Toure was not impressed with what he saw. 😳pic.twitter.com/EHsal1UR4S
— EPL Bible (@EPLBible) March 3, 2026
Mikel Arteta Defends his Tactical Decisions
Mikel Arteta hit back at critics who questioned his team’s use of set pieces. The manager said he was proud of these goals. He called them a key part of the tactics against a well-organized defense. He also noted that a tactics board can fix many problems. But facing a live, aggressive opponent is far harder.
As per reports, the manager added that having many ways to score is a strength, not a flaw. “To have these options is great. They can be a nightmare to defend against. On tactics boards we can resolve any situation, but when it’s live and they are so aggressive, pushy, effective, difficult to handle, it’s very tough,” he explained in the post-match press conference.
The Status of Martin Odegaard
The influential captain missed the recent clash because of a persistent knee issue. He recently returned as a substitute in a previous match against Tottenham. But He did not feel comfortable enough to start on Sunday.
Regarding his current form, the midfielder has recorded one goal and five assists across 20 appearances in the domestic campaign. Interestingly, he has already missed 16 matches this season. It is one more match than he sat out during the entire previous year.
Other fitness concerns include Declan Rice, who suffered a calf injury, and David Raya, who is dealing with minor niggles. Ben White also remains sidelined with a knock, while Mikel Merino is out long-term following foot surgery. Their status remains uncertain for the upcoming Brighton match.
In Conclusion
In summary, while Arsenal secured the necessary points to stay ahead, the lack of open-play creativity has sparked debate. Pundits suggest that the absence of Martin Odegaard creates a void that set-pieces alone cannot permanently fill. As the title race intensifies, the fitness of key players will be crucial. It could determine whether the squad can maintain their lead over a surging Manchester City.
As featured on GoonerNews.com
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