Arsenal extended their lead at the top of the Premier League to nine points on Saturday afternoon with a routine win over Sunderland, and that was despite injuries to several key first-team players.
Goals from Martin Zubimendi and Viktor Gyokeres gave Mikel Arteta's side the victory at the Emirates Stadium, putting them nine points clear of Man City, who play Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday, and Aston Villa, who were held to a 1-1 draw with Bournemouth on Saturday.
But the victory was extra sweet for the Gunners as they defeated an in-form Black Cats side despite the likes of Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard, and Gabriel Martinelli not being in the side.
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Martin Odegaard
Odegaard, who has been hailed as 'world-class' by Jamie Carragher, was absent once again due to injury, which allowed for Arteta to go with former Chelsea star Kai Havertz in the number ten role.
The German impressed once again, registering an assist for Gyokeres' goal in the second half, and constantly looking like a threat as he linked the midfield and forward line together, and it's clear that this is his preferred role.
Despite Odegaard not being available to call upon, Arsenal's strength in depth was obvious for all to see, too. Eberechi Eze was named on the bench and was introduced in the 67th minute for Havertz, while the team were also able to call upon Martinelli, Gyokeres, Gabriel Jesus, Noni Madueke and Leandro Trossard in the attacking third throughout the game.
Reports emerged recently that Odegaard could be looking to depart the Emirates this summer, as he looks for a new challenge, while it has also been reported that the playmaker is currently feuding with the manager and could be targeted for a move back to Real Madrid.
If that is true, then Arsenal don't need to fight to keep him. The Norwegian has struggled for consistent form in recent years, doesn't deliver the numbers that he should from his role, and the squad is strong enough already without him.
While his talent is unquestionable, it could be argued that his passive style often holds the team back a little, and if they can earn a big fee to let him depart then they would be crazy not to take it, especially with player and manager not seeing eye to eye.
Arsenal Don't Need Odegaard
Arsenal's Martin Odegaard reacts
Premier League - Everton v Arsenal - Hill Dickinson Stadium, Liverpool, Britain - December 20, 2025 Arsenal's Martin Odegaard reacts Action Images via Reuters/Jason Cairnduff
With such a deep squad, and money to spend, Arsenal don't need to hold on to passengers. That is what Odegaard has become, despite his captaincy and clear quality.
The squad is strong enough to cope with his absence, which means an exit shouldn't be completely shut down, and it would make a lot of sense to let him move on for a big offer and give other players, including youngster Ethan Nwaneri, a chance to impress.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta Related
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