Jamie O’Hara has urged Arsenal Football Club to seriously consider selling captain Martin Ødegaard this summer following what he described as a disappointing performance in the Gunners’ 1-1 draw with Atlético Madrid in the UEFA Champions League semi-final first leg this week.
The call from O’Hara adds to growing criticism of Ødegaard’s season, during which the Norwegian playmaker has battled injuries and struggled to find consistent form. Arsenal were held to a draw in Madrid, with Ødegaard substituted just before the hour mark after a quiet outing that did little to influence proceedings in midfield or in the final third.
O’Hara, speaking on UK media outlet talkSPORT, was forthright in his assessment. He labelled Ødegaard’s recent displays as “terrible” and questioned the 27-year-old’s long-term suitability as Arsenal’s creative fulcrum and captain. The former England international suggested that a summer transfer could be a pragmatic reset for both player and club as Arsenal seek to strengthen key areas of their squad
‘Last season he wasn’t great either,’ O’Hara told talkSPORT. He’s been terrible this season, getting dragged in the Champions League semi-final when you’re the captain is never a good look.
‘I do believe that Arsenal maybe are growing away from Odegaard. Maybe they’ve got to look at a player who can come in and be that talisman. When Eze came on tonight, he kept getting caught in possession. He’s done a couple of good things, but is he the world star in the number 10 role for Arsenal? I’m not sure.
‘But Odegaard needs to up his game. He needs to buck his ideas up because he will end up falling down a pecking order. I don’t think he can be the captain anymore.’
Meanwhile, Jason Cundy believes Declan Rice will become Arsenal ’s next captain if Odegaard leave the club.
‘He’s never going to catch the eye in terms of doing step-overs and pinging one in top bins, running 30 yards. He ain’t that player. What he is, defensively, he’s a monster,’ Cundy said.
‘When he goes forward, he carries the team. He’s brilliant in control. I think he will be England’s next captain and I think it’ll be Arsenal’s next captain.’
Despite the criticism, there remains a strong contingent of Arsenal supporters and analysts who insist Ødegaard’s overall contribution to the club over six seasons has been substantial. Inside sources argue that injuries, rather than a permanent decline in ability, have played a significant role in his dip in output this term. Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has historically backed his captain’s importance to the team’s tactical fabric, although public comments on the matter have been measured.
Arsenal’s technical staff now face a potentially decisive summer transfer window. Reports also link the club with bringing in fresh creativity, either to complement or succeed Ødegaard’s role, as part of a broader squad overhaul.
MORE ARSENAL NEWS AND GOSSIP –
Latest: Berta Spotted! Arsenal to make mega move to sign world class 27-year old striker!
Most Read: Arsenal on verge of first summer agreement – 14-goals star packing bags ahead or Emirates move.
Must Check Out: Direct transfer message sent to Arsenal board Over Arteta’s ‘dazzling’ dream signing
LOVE ARSENAL? CLICK RIGHT HERE FOR ALL THE LATEST NEWS AND GOSSIP
Related
Discover more from IcFootballNews –
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.