Martin Odegaard has been pivotal to Arsenal's resurgence under Mikel Arteta, driving their midfield with creativity, leadership, and tactical intelligence. However, a potential injury layoff for the Norwegian captain could disrupt Arsenal’s momentum in both domestic and European competitions. As the Gunners face this setback, the key question arises: can Arsenal maintain their competitive edge without their important playmaker?

Read Also | Tottenham vs Arsenal Premier League 2024-25 Highlights | Gabriel Magalhaes's lone goal help Arsenal beat Spurs 1-0 

How Important is Martin Odegaard to Arsenal?

Since Martin Odegaard's permanent signing with Arsenal in the summer of 2021, he has quickly become one of the club's key players. This was made clear when he was given the captain's armband just a year later in 2022.

The player sustained an injury following a tackle made on him while representing his country Norway on International duty.

Doctors have confirmed that the Arsenal captain will be sidelined for an extended period following slight damage to a ligament in his ankle. two key traits make Martin Odeegard an important player for Arsenal and they are as follows

1. Availability: throughout the last 3 seasons Martin Odegaard only missed 6 matches out of 114 games in the premier league within the period meaning he was available for 94.6% of games between 2021 and 2024
2. Chance creation and Goal scoring ability: Martin Odegaard and Bukayo Saka have been one of Arsenal's most creative players. His playmaking skills have helped the team win key matches, including the important victory against Porto in the Champions League round of 16 last season.
3. Leadership Qualities: although Arsenal is not short of team leaders. Martin Odegaard has a strong presence in the dressing room which inspires both the younger players and the older players positively.

Read Also: Shorts: Most Premier League Hat-Tricks (sportzpoint.com)

Martin Odegaard Premier League Statistics for Arsenal in the last 3 seasons

Can Arsenal Maintain Momentum Without Their Key Playmaker

This has been a key question in the mouths of the Arsenal fans, football pundits, and every lover of the game. last season, Arsenal could keep the most clean sheets in the league and concede the least goals thanks to their defense 

Arsenal's Defensive Statistics in the Premier League 2023/2024 season

Arsenal's defensive position is firm this season, with their entire backline currently available for selection. However, the issue arises offensively when they try to control games with the ball. This is where Martin Odegaard's importance becomes evident.

Martin Odegaard's Passing Frequency in the 2023/2024 Premier League Season

Conclusion

Arsenal faces a significant setback regarding their squad depth and attacking options, but the good side is that it offers an opportunity for other players to step up and demonstrate their value to the team. It remains to be seen how effectively they can fill the void left by Martin Odegaard’s injury and the overall effect this will have on Arsenal’s title ambitions.