Arsenal could face a major midfield decision this summer, with Martin Ødegaard’s role under Mikel Arteta increasingly under scrutiny despite Arsène Wenger once comparing him to a “young Cesc Fàbregas”.
The Norwegian playmaker remains the club’s captain, but growing competition and declining goal output have raised questions about his long-term place at the Emirates Stadium.
Arsenal’s depth creates tough calls
Arsenal’s squad depth has been one of the defining features of their Premier League title push this season. Despite a series of injuries particularly in defence Mikel Arteta has been able to rely on a deep and versatile squad.
However, that depth has also created problems for several players, with minutes becoming increasingly difficult to come by across multiple positions.
Ødegaard’s declining influence
For several seasons, Martin Ødegaard was Arsenal’s creative heartbeat. His best campaign came in 2022/23, when he scored 15 Premier League goals and led Arteta’s side during their most fluent attacking season to date.
Since then, his influence in the final third has waned. The 27-year-old has managed just one goal this season, following a modest return of six goals last term, raising concerns about his effectiveness in a role that demands consistent end product.
Competition intensifies in attacking midfield
Arteta now has multiple options behind the striker. Eberechi Eze, signed from Crystal Palace, impressed early on, while Kai Havertz has re-emerged as a creative force following his return from injury and has already developed a promising understanding with Viktor Gyökeres.
Looking ahead, Ethan Nwaneri will return from loan next season, while highly-rated teenager Max Dowman is also pushing for opportunities in central areas.
Wenger’s ‘young Fabregas’ comparison revisited
Speaking in 2023, former Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger described Ødegaard as “like a young Cesc Fàbregas”, praising his intelligence and all-round midfield qualities. At the time, the comparison felt justified.
Yet football evolves quickly, and Ødegaard’s development has stalled relative to Arsenal’s growing ambitions. Recent substitutions before the hour mark and his omission from the starting XI against Leeds suggest Arteta may be reassessing his captain’s role.
Is a summer sale realistic?
Signed for £30 million in 2021, Ødegaard still retains significant market value. With Arsenal aiming to take the next step domestically and in Europe, the club may consider reinvesting funds into a more consistent goalscoring midfielder.
While selling the captain would be a bold move, Arsenal’s depth and long-term planning could make such a decision increasingly logical if Ødegaard’s form does not improve.
Thiago Nuno is a football editor and analyst covering European leagues, match statistics, and transfer market trends.
