Arteta Must Rethink: Martin Ødegaard’s PSG Display Raises Questions Over His Role at Arsenal

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has plenty to ponder following the Gunners’ 1-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Champions League semi-final first leg at the Emirates Stadium.

Despite dominating large spells of the game and creating high-quality chances, Arsenal failed to convert. Gianluigi Donnarumma delivered two world-class saves to deny Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard, but the home side were left ruing their inefficiency.

Among the many talking points, one stands out sharply: the underwhelming performance of Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard.

The 26-year-old Norwegian international, signed for £30 million, struggled to influence the game, losing possession 13 times, completing just 1 key pass, and offering little in terms of creative spark or leadership in a high-stakes encounter.

While Arteta has long backed Ødegaard as his tactical centrepiece, critics argue that the midfielder lacks the cutting edge and match-winning mentality needed at the very highest level. Unlike the consistency shown by Bruno Fernandes or the flair of Jamal Musiala, Ødegaard often flatters to deceive in big moments.

In truth, his best form came last season when Arteta deployed him deeper, where he could dictate tempo rather than bear the creative burden alone. His 2022/23 campaign—where he scored 15 Premier League goals—feels distant now.

Ødegaard’s comparison to Dennis Bergkamp now seems premature. While both are technically superb, Bergkamp was a man for the moment—Ødegaard, currently, is not.

With young talent like Ethan Nwaneri showing signs of being a more natural No. 10, and potential signings like Florian Wirtz or Xavi Simons reportedly on Arsenal's radar, Arteta may soon be forced to make a ruthless decision for the good of the team.

Arsenal fans will hope the second leg in Paris tells a different story. But if the Gunners are to break into the elite tier of European clubs, they must find match-winners—not just playmakers.