Mikel Arteta has defended Martin Odegaard’s lower goal contributions this season, attributing the dip to recurring injuries while expressing total confidence in the midfielder’s work ethic and future impact.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has addressed Martin Odegaard’s modest statistical return of one goal and three assists this term.
Defending his captain, Arteta emphasized that availability issues have hindered the midfielder’s rhythm.
He explained: “Those are the numbers… but we have to give the full numbers as well. He’s played much less minutes than any other season as well because he’s been three times injured.”
Despite the setbacks, Arteta remains certain that the Norwegian international will regain his influence in the final third.
The manager stressed the importance of his captain’s presence in decisive areas to secure victories. Arteta concluded: “If you know Martin how he works everything on that, I have no doubt that that will come.”
The Gunners hope their playmaker can maintain fitness for the season’s run-in.