Arsenal Must Sell Martin Odegaard After Mikel Arteta Fallout, They’ve Already Replaced Him
Arsenal extended their lead at the top of the Premier League to nine points on Saturday afternoon with a routine victory over Sunderland, despite injuries to several key first-team players.
Goals from Martin Zubimendi and Viktor Gyokeres gave Mikel Arteta’s side victory at the Emirates Stadium, putting them nine points clear of Man City, who face Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday, and Aston Villa, who were held to a 1-1 draw against Bournemouth on Saturday.
But the victory was very sweet for the Gunners as they beat an in-form Black Cats side despite the absence of Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard and Gabriel Martinelli.
Arsenal can move Odegaard this summer
Odegaard, who was hailed as “world class” by Jamie Carragher, was again absent through injury, allowing Arteta to join former Chelsea star Kai Havertz in the number ten role.
The German impressed once again, registering an assist on Gyokeres’ goal in the second half, and constantly looking like a threat as he linked the midfield and forward line, and it’s clear that this is his preferred role.
Although Odegaard was unavailable, Arsenal’s strength in depth was also evident for all to see. Eberechi Eze was named on the bench and was introduced in the 67th minute for Havertz, while the team was also able to call on Martinelli, Gyokeres, Gabriel Jesus, Noni Madueke and Leandro Trossard in the attacking third throughout the match.
Reports have recently emerged that Odegaard could be considering leaving the Emirates this summer, in search of a new challenge, while it has also been reported that the playmaker is currently in conflict with the manager and could be the target of a return to Real Madrid.
If this is true, Arsenal don’t need to fight to keep him. The Norwegian has struggled to maintain consistent form in recent years, isn’t putting up the numbers he should have for his role and the team is already strong enough without him.
While his talent is undeniable, it could be argued that his passive style often holds the team back a bit, and if they can make a significant amount of money to let him go, they would be crazy not to take him on, especially if the player and manager don’t see eye to eye.
Arsenal don’t need Odegaard
With such a large squad and money to spend, Arsenal have no need to hold back passengers. This is what Odegaard has become, despite his captaincy and his obvious qualities.
The team is strong enough to deal with his absence, meaning an exit shouldn’t be completely closed off, and it would make perfect sense to let him leave for a big deal and give other players, including youngster Ethan Nwaneri, a chance to impress.
Arsenal confirm pre-contract agreement to sign ‘fantastic talent’ this summer
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