Martin Odegaard is demonstrating a significant uplift in his performance this season, already surpassing his goal tallies from previous campaigns and poised to eclipse the combined totals of the last two years. The Arsenal captain has emerged as the primary catalyst for the club’s strong start to the current season, shedding previous hesitations and a tendency to play conservatively to rediscover his peak form.

Odegaard’s Evolving Game and Statistical Leap

The Norwegian midfielder has netted four goals so far this season, including one in the Community Shield, two in the Premier League, and a crucial strike against Napoli in the Champions League. However, it is his all-around contribution that has truly captured attention. Odegaard is playing with a newfound freedom, a style he showcased during the World Cup with Norway and has seamlessly integrated into his club performances.

Last season, Odegaard’s goal output was limited to just one for Arsenal, a campaign significantly hampered by injuries. The season prior, he managed six goals across all competitions but was also sidelined by an ankle injury sustained on international duty in September 2024. At that time, his absence was keenly felt, with many considering him indispensable to the team’s structure, and his recovery period proved challenging in regaining his previous level.

Overcoming Hesitation and Regaining Confidence

In the previous season, there appeared to be an underlying issue of trust, with Odegaard seemingly hesitant on the pitch. This was often interpreted as a lack of confidence in his physical condition, perhaps stemming from the fear of re-injury after a knee issue. While he played in the latter stages of the season, he was not at his commanding best. The World Cup, however, seems to have been a turning point, restoring his confidence, belief, and his decisive edge.

Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville observed this shift after Arsenal’s victory over Chelsea, where Odegaard scored the winning goal. Neville noted that the midfielder had fallen into a pattern of playing too safely, opting for sideways passes and avoiding risk. He highlighted Odegaard’s capability to be sharper, make more late runs into the box, and contribute offensively, as demonstrated in the Chelsea match. Neville posed the question of whether Odegaard could consistently achieve ten to twelve goals and assists per season, a benchmark that would place him among the league’s elite, emphasizing the need for him to seek out dangerous attacking positions when the team requires goals.

Driving Arsenal’s Attacking Prowess

Odegaard is now consistently demonstrating the qualities Neville alluded to, acting as the primary engine driving Arsenal forward. His performance against Napoli was particularly noteworthy; he dictated play, completing 92 passes out of 107 attempted, ranking second only to Declan Rice in volume. This high pass completion rate, despite attempting more passes, indicates a willingness to take calculated risks.

His work rate was exceptional, covering 11.6km, joint top with Piero Hincapie, and he maintained a relentless work ethic throughout the match, constantly seeking opportunities to score. His decisive goal in that game was a fitting reward for his efforts. It is important to remember that this dominant performance occurred against Napoli, the reigning champions of Italy just 14 months prior. Arsenal’s statistical dominance in that match, with an expected goals (xG) of 4.05 and an expected goals against (xGA) of only 0.22, underscored the team’s superior performance, largely orchestrated by Odegaard.

Impact on Team Dynamics and Set Pieces

Odegaard’s resurgence is also linked to a notable change in Arsenal’s approach to set pieces. Previously branded ‘Set Piece FC’ for their reliance on goals from dead-ball situations, the team has yet to score from a set piece this season across five matches, including the Community Shield, three Premier League fixtures, and one Champions League game. This shift is not seen as a coincidence but rather a consequence of Odegaard’s return to his influential best. He is recognized as one of the Premier League’s top midfield playmakers, with the potential to rank among Europe’s elite.

The presence of a fit and firing Odegaard fundamentally alters Arsenal’s playing style. The team retains possession more effectively and presents a more engaging spectacle for fans. The connection between Odegaard, Kai Havertz, and Bukayo Saka has been a significant positive, a dynamic that Arsenal has missed. The victory over Chelsea marked the first time since December 2024 that this trio started three consecutive league games together. With Odegaard at the heart of their attacking play, Arsenal appears to be a significantly improved side.

Conclusion: A Transformed Arsenal

Martin Odegaard’s transformation this season, marked by increased confidence, a willingness to take risks, and a return to his influential best, has been instrumental in Arsenal’s positive start. His leadership on the field, combined with the re-established connection with key attacking teammates, has revitalized the team’s performance and style of play. As Odegaard continues to operate at this elevated level, Arsenal looks poised for a successful campaign, demonstrating a more dynamic and effective approach to the game.