Arsenal have significantly strengthened with Martin Ødegaard’s return to the squad.
Although they are currently nine points behind Liverpool in the Premier League, and there are doubts surrounding their title prospects, Ødegaard’s presence has reinvigorated their hopes of a comeback in the race.
Ødegaard’s influence extends far beyond simply boosting team morale—he controls the rhythm of the game.
His return to the Emirates has been instrumental, and his performance in the 3-0 win over Chelsea highlighted this.
Ødegaard’s precise, visionary pass from a seemingly impossible angle was pivotal in setting the tone for the match.
In Arsenal’s dominant 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest, Ødegaard was again central to the victory, dictating play and orchestrating their dominance from the midfield.
Even with Ben White absent from the right flank alongside Bukayo Saka, Ødegaard seamlessly took charge of the game.
His immaculate touches and the ability to control the tempo ensured that Arsenal were never off balance.
Though he didn’t get an assist in that match, his role in linking the team’s play and creating opportunities was vital.
Saka’s individual effort created the first goal, but from then on, Arsenal asserted full control.
With the game in hand, Arteta felt secure enough to make substitutions, even introducing Raheem Sterling as a fresh option.
The only regret for Arteta might be that Ødegaard’s absence left Ethan Nwaneri with fewer opportunities to step up.
Looking to the future, Ødegaard’s return comes at a crucial juncture in Arsenal’s season.
With tough upcoming fixtures ahead, his leadership will be vital in pushing Arsenal forward in the title race.
The month leading up to the New Year could be decisive for Arsenal’s campaign, as they face some of the league’s toughest opposition.
Arsenal’s upcoming Premier League matches include:
West Ham (A) – Saturday, November 30: Arsenal are favorites here, with West Ham struggling this season, although a tough Champions League clash against Sporting CP looms for Arteta’s men.
Manchester United (H) – Wednesday, December 4: A crucial midweek match at the Emirates, where Arsenal will be expected to take control against a well-organized but unpredictable United side.
Fulham (A) – Sunday, December 8: While Fulham have impressed this season, their previous upset of Arsenal makes this match potentially tricky, with Fulham eager to secure points against their London rivals.
Everton (H) – Saturday, December 14: Although Everton have struggled this season, Arsenal must remain cautious, as Dyche’s side often poses problems, despite their lack of goals.
Crystal Palace (A) – Saturday, December 21: With Palace’s form dipping and missing key players like Michael Olise and Eberechi Eze, Arsenal should feel confident of taking all three points, especially with Eddie Nketiah returning to face his former club.
For Liverpool, their next five fixtures are as follows:
Southampton (A) – Sunday, November 24
Manchester City (H) – Sunday, December 1
Newcastle (A) – Wednesday, December 4
Everton (A) – Saturday, December 7
Fulham (H) – Saturday, December 14
Meanwhile, Manchester City will play the following:
Tottenham (H) – Saturday, December 23
Liverpool (A) – Sunday, December 1
The period ahead is critical for Arsenal as they aim to close the gap to the top of the table.
Ødegaard’s presence could make all the difference in their pursuit of the Premier League title.
