Could refreshed Odegaard be like a new signing?
The Arsenal captain had a hugely frustrating 2025-26 season despite leading his team to the title - but now appears fit and refreshed.
Martin Odegaard's standout performance during Arsenal's Community Shield victory over Manchester City suggests that the Norwegian playmaker may be returning to his best form after a challenging 2025-26 season marred by knee and shoulder issues. Despite Arsenal's Premier League triumph the previous year, Odegaard only appeared in 16 league games, scoring just one goal and providing seven assists.
His stellar display in Cardiff, where he completed the most passes, made the most dribbles and won possession the most times, signals a potential return to his prime.
As Mikel Arteta continues his midfield rebuilding efforts with the acquisition of £75 million Bruno Guimaraes, Odegaard's resurgence could be a crucial factor in the Gunners' success. The Spanish manager is confident that Odegaard's return to form will make a significant difference in the team's performance, especially considering the midfield's depth with players like Guimaraes, Myles Lewis-Skelly, Martin Zubillán, Declan Rice, Eberechi Eze, and Merino.
Odegaard's all-around brilliance, as evidenced by his performance in Sunday's match, indicates that he is ready to prove himself as the team's captain once again. The combination of Odegaard and Guimaraes seemed to click immediately, with Odegaard completing the most passes and making the most dribbles. Arteta is optimistic that Odegaard's renewed fitness and availability will lead to a more formidable version of the Arsenal captain in the upcoming season.
Written by urgent.news from BBC Sport's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
