Martin Odegaard thinks one Arsenal player in particular made ‘the difference’ vs Newcastle

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Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard showed glimpses of his brilliant best against Newcastle, but he wasn’t the only one to impress.

The 2024/25 campaign was difficult for Odegaard, who struggled to find consistency throughout the season.

One certainty ahead of the Premier League kick-off for the 2025/26 calendar is that the Arsenal captain will be gunning to make amends.

Odegaard added a lot of energy to the pitch when introduced in Arsenal’s win over Newcastle in Singapore, but the attacking midfielder was eager to put the spotlight on one of his teammates.

Martin Odegaard was impressed with Max Dowman

Arsenal fans were in awe of Max Dowman’s performance against Newcastle, and so were many others.

After the game, Odegaard spoke to Arsenal’s official website, where he lauded Dowman for being a difference-maker. 

“Some really good performances again,” Odegaard said.

“Max coming on, making the difference. There are a lot of positive things to take with us.”

In the 15-year-old’s second appearance with the first team, he showed exactly why Mikel Arteta thinks so highly of him.

Dowman has a talent that is impossible to ignore, with members of the Arsenal squad already aware of the success that the teenager could go on to have.

Declan Rice was one to comment on Dowman’s performance, as the 2009-born talent made himself a real nuisance for Eddie Howe’s side.

It’s no surprise that Odegaard opted to praise the Hale End star, who enjoyed a fearless 30-minute cameo. 

Dowman’s rise is a unique situation for Arteta to monitor

Dowman will be eyeing first-team football over the 2025/26 calendar, giving Arteta something to think about.

One thing that the Arsenal manager isn’t afraid to do is to promote academy hopefuls, as seen through Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri’s development last term.

With Dowman, things could be different, as at just 15, the sensational talent is showing that he’s capable of mixing it with the best.

Too much too soon could be a problem for the teen, but Arteta won’t know his limits unless he’s tested when the competitive action begins.

Regardless of what happens, Dowman will be one to keep tabs on next season, whether he’s with the U21s or the first team.