Martin Odegaard showcased exactly why he’s been such a crucial missing piece for Arsenal when he returned to action against Chelsea on Sunday. Despite a year marred by injury setbacks, the midfielder continues to lead the Premier League in creative statistics.
Odegaard has created 62 chances from open play in 2024, three more than Chelsea’s Cole Palmer, with Liverpool’s Luis Diaz trailing closely behind on 58. This remarkable tally comes despite the Arsenal star missing 15 league matches due to injury.
In his return to the pitch at Stamford Bridge, Odegaard played a key role in Arsenal’s 1-1 draw, providing the assist for Gabriel Martinelli’s opening goal and creating four chances overall. Speaking after the match, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was full of praise for his captain’s performance, stating, “I don’t know any other player in the league capable of doing that after six weeks out. He had a day and a half of training, and just to be physically and mentally connected the way he was with the team is unbelievable.
Arsenal fans had feared for their captain’s fitness after he was called up for international duty with Norway. However, Martin Odegaard has since withdrawn from the squad to continue his recovery at Hale End, much to the relief of Gunners supporters.
With Arsenal struggling for form, the timing of the international break could prove fortuitous. After a challenging run of results that has seen them fall behind in the title race, the break offers the squad a chance to regroup and refocus.
