Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta heaped praise on Martin Ødegaard after the captain produced a dazzling performance that guided the Gunners to a convincing 2-0 victory over Olympiacos in the UEFA Champions League group stage.
The Spanish coach revealed that his decision to grant the Norwegian playmaker total freedom on the pitch was the key behind his influential display, describing him as the “creative heartbeat” of Arsenal’s European triumph.
Ødegaard Returns and Instantly Transforms Arsenal
Having just recovered from a shoulder injury that sidelined him for several weeks, Ødegaard wasted no time in making his presence felt. Back in the starting eleven, he orchestrated Arsenal’s attack with intelligence, vision, and composure, immediately reminding fans why he is regarded as one of the most complete midfielders in Europe.
The first breakthrough came in the 12th minute, when Ødegaard spotted space between the lines and released a perfectly weighted ball to Gabriel Martinelli, who slotted home to give Arsenal an early lead. His creativity struck again deep in injury time, threading a precise pass to Bukayo Saka, who sealed the win with a clinical finish.
“Martin has all the freedom in the world to attack,” Arteta said proudly after the match. “It’s not only about his passing, but also the way he carries the ball, dictates the tempo, and makes those dangerous runs into space. He’s a constant threat. He could have scored today as well, but I’m just delighted to have him back. You could already see his impact when he came on against Newcastle last weekend, and tonight he took it to another level.”
Arsenal’s Engine in the Middle of the Park
Ødegaard’s return has brought a new dimension to Arsenal’s play. When he is on the pitch, the North London club looks sharper, quicker, and far more fluid in possession. He not only leads the press from the front but also sets the rhythm of Arsenal’s attacking transitions.
Arteta highlighted how Ødegaard’s qualities perfectly complement Arsenal’s fast, dynamic style—especially with explosive wide players such as Gabriel Martinelli, Bukayo Saka, and new additions like Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke stretching defenses.
“To get the best out of our pace on the wings, we need someone with the vision and creativity to unlock defenses,” Arteta explained. “That’s Martin’s natural gift. He thrives under freedom rather than pressure. Very few players can play with that sense of instinct and imagination. That’s why I’ve given him complete liberty to roam, to explore spaces, and to dictate our game. And in recent matches, he’s been exceptional.”
Arsenal’s Squad Depth Adds Another Weapon
Despite some ongoing injury concerns—Noni Madueke remains sidelined and Bukayo Saka only recently returned from a hamstring issue—Arteta emphasized that he is not overly worried. The squad is now built to handle such challenges, with quality options like Martinelli and Leandro Trossard ready to rotate in the wide positions.
This depth is something Arsenal lacked in previous seasons, often suffering when key players were unavailable. However, significant investment during the summer transfer window has transformed the squad into a more balanced and competitive unit, capable of fighting on multiple fronts without losing intensity.
Champions League Ambitions Rising
With Ødegaard rediscovering top form and Arsenal continuing to build momentum, optimism is growing around the Emirates. Arteta’s side looks well-prepared not just to challenge domestically in the Premier League but also to make a serious run in the Champions League.
For Arsenal fans, the sight of their captain dictating play with such elegance and authority is a reassuring sign that the team is evolving into a genuine European force. If Ødegaard can maintain his fitness and freedom on the pitch, the Gunners may finally be ready to break new ground on the biggest stage of all.
ALSO READ :
