Arteta expects this to be Odegaard’s year to shine

Martin Odegaard scored a fine goal as Arsenal beat Manchester City in the Community Shield yesterday, and his overall performance was impressive. His display has led the Gunners’ manager to believe that this could be a big year for the Norway and Arsenal captain.

Odegaard struggled with his fitness for much of last season and was not the same player at his best. Arsenal will therefore be keen to see him remain fit and available throughout the campaign, particularly as the club attempts to retain the title.

Odegaard Can Show His Best Form

Against City, Odegaard provided a glimpse of what Arsenal can expect when he is fully fit. His performance will give the Gunners confidence that he can produce similar displays more regularly, with the club relying on its captain to play a major role.

Arsenal have one of the top managers in the world, and Mikel Arteta earns the trust of his players each day. Odegaard will therefore be keen to continue working hard for his manager, while Arteta will want his captain to remain healthy and available.

The manager understands the importance of having Odegaard fit, and believes his best football can return when he can build momentum and play consistently with the players around him. Arteta also appears convinced that his captain has more to offer.

Arteta Expects a Different Odegaard

Arteta explained that Odegaard’s struggles last season were partly caused by his inability to maintain his fitness, which prevented him from finding any real rhythm. He now believes a fit Odegaard can become a very different player for Arsenal this season.

Arteta said via the Daily Mail: ‘Well, he (Odegaard) missed five or six months for different things and it was extremely difficult for him to get any momentum, so I’m sure this year if we can maintain him fit, available with the players around him, we’re going to see a very different Martin.

‘And I sense from the first day that he joined that he has something else in the belly that he wants to prove and show it, because the team needs it as well.’

Those comments underline Arteta’s belief that Odegaard has another level to reach. If the captain can stay fit and maintain his momentum, Arsenal will hope his influence can help them defend their EPL crown.