Gary Lineker - Arsenal
Image credit: Getty Images
Following Arsenal’s historic 7-1 Champions League victory over PSV Eindhoven on Tuesday, former England star Gary Lineker has noted a significant improvement in Martin Odegaard ’s performances, suggesting the Gunners captain looks like a “different player.”
Odegaard, 26, silenced his critics with a standout display, netting twice and providing an assist in Arsenal’s emphatic win. The result puts Mikel Arteta’s side in a commanding position heading into the second leg of their round-of-16 tie, with a likely quarter-final clash against either Real Madrid or Atletico Madrid on the horizon.
The Norwegian playmaker, who had struggled for form after missing several matches earlier in the season due to injury, had only scored once since November before his dazzling performance against PSV. His recent dip in form had drawn criticism from fans and pundits, but Tuesday’s masterclass served as a timely reminder of his quality.
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Gary Lineker acknowledged that Odegaard had not been at his best this season compared to previous campaigns but suggested that his dominant display in Eindhoven could be the catalyst for a return to top form.
ARsenal captain Martin Odegaard
Martin Odegaard scored a brace against PSV in the Champions League (Image credit: Getty Images)
“Odegaard coming back to form—you mentioned him there, and you said it was easy for him—but it would do his confidence a lot of good because he’s not quite been the Odegaard that we’ve seen so consistently over the last couple of seasons,” Lineker said.
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Alan Shearer echoed the sentiment, labeling the Norwegian’s performance as “incredible” and predicting further improvement in the coming weeks.
“That will do him the world of good. But as I said, he did have the freedom of Eindhoven. It was just incredible how much space they gave him,” Shearer added.
Darren Bent also tipped Odegaard to find his rhythm again just before the match, highlighting the midfielder’s ability to dictate play when in form.
Martin Ødegaard admits he hasn’t been anywhere near the level needed this season.
My captain. He’ll be back so much better. I have no doubt in him. 🇳🇴🫡 pic.twitter.com/gujAIbwmBz
— now.arsenal (@now_arsenaI) March 5, 2025
While Odegaard’s display against PSV was a reminder of his immense talent, Lineker pointed out that his overall form this season has not matched the high standards he set in previous campaigns.
At his best, Odegaard is widely regarded as a world-class playmaker, but his recent performances have lacked the same consistency and influence. However, with Arsenal still competing on multiple fronts, Tuesday’s performance could mark the beginning of the Norwegian’s resurgence at a crucial point in the season.
Arsenal will return to Premier League action on Sunday against Manchester United at Old Trafford.
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