The heartbeat of Arsenal’s midfield has become Martin Odegaard. Since Real Madrid loaned him to the Capital Club in 2021, he has become the team’s primary creative force. Odegaard, whether it’s threading those impossible passes in or breaking down stubborn defenses, has been Arsenal’s man in the middle for attacking success.
But lately, something’s off. Norway’s playmaker is finding it difficult to play at the high level where we have become accustomed. Fans wonder if Odegaard has gone cold or if it’s just a temporary dip as he fails to register just two goals and four assists in 21 league appearances this season.
From Madrid’s Castoff to Arsenal’s Captain Fantastic
Let’s rewind. At the time he landed at Arsenal, it wasn’t a case where the hype was drowning Odegaard. Real Madrid cast him off, and he was another ‘what could have been’ wonderkid. He thrived, however, under the guidance of Mikel Arteta.
In all competitions, throughout the 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 seasons when Odegaard played, he scored as many as 23 goals and provided as many as 17 assists. He wasn’t merely directing the strings—he was ripping them, hauling Arsenal right up to the brink of a Premier League title. He was like water in the desert for a club that was deprived of domestic glory.
Football, though, is a cutthroat industry. To the person who was yesterday’s hero, today is surely question mark.
Is Odegaard Running Out of Magic Dust?
This season? It has not been the highlight reel, period. His output remains down as he struggles to improve on just two goals and four assists. Yes, it was hampered by an early-season injury. However, since returning, he hasn’t quite looked the midfield wizard Arsenal fans want to see.
What I’ll say about being the main creative engine is this: when you’re on fire, you are a genius. When you’re not? People begin to look at the transfer market well.
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