London (GNP): Arsenal were one game away from a Premier League and Champions League double last season, even with Martin Odegaard’s form disrupted by injuries. As they aim to build on a first Premier League title in 24 years, manager Mikel Arteta will be encouraged to see the 27-year-old Norwegian starting this campaign in the best form of his career.
Arsenal dominated Napoli in their Champions League opener, though it took a decisive contribution from Odegaard, whose stunning left-foot strike 15 minutes from time sealed a 1-0 win. With their captain performing at this level, Arsenal look capable of overcoming every test ahead.
Odegaard was restricted to 36 games last season by knee and shoulder injuries, managing one goal and seven assists. He showed signs of revival at the World Cup before finding a new level this season, scoring an audacious goal in the Community Shield win over Manchester City, netting against Coventry City, and striking the winner in a 2-1 comeback victory over Chelsea.
The Napoli display and Chelsea winner reflected a player back at the peak of his powers, in a team buoyed by recent success. The result carries added weight given tough fixtures ahead, including matches against Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, with Arsenal’s patient dismantling of a defensive Napoli side pointing to a squad building on last term’s achievements.
Former Premier League defender Nedum Onuoha, speaking on Match of the Day, said Odegaard will want a bigger impact this season and is chasing the Champions League as the trophy still missing from his collection. Onuoha said, “He 100% takes Arsenal to a different level when he is on form,” adding that the team’s attacking pattern shifts around his influence when he is at his best.
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Arteta praised the mindset Odegaard has shown in recent matches, calling his strike against Napoli “an incredible goal.” Onuoha added that Odegaard’s creativity on the right has been excellent, praising his composure in possession and defensive contribution.
Arsenal registered 26 shots against Napoli, their highest total in a single Champions League match since records began in 2003-04. Arteta said, “Martin is contributing with goals that are impacting results,” while noting his side should have settled the match sooner given the chances created. The Champions League has proved elusive for Arsenal, with final defeats to Barcelona in 2006 and Paris St-Germain last season, but sustained form from Odegaard would sharply improve their chances of finally winning it.
Managing Editor at Global News Pakistan (GNP), with a Bachelor's degree in International Relations from Riphah International University, graduated with a Gold Medal. Reach out at sabahtareengnp@gmail.com
