Arsenal star Martin Odegaard identifies key Manchester City changes

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Arsenal club captain Martin Odegaard has had his say on how Manchester City have evolved in recent years.

Arsenal face reigning Premier League champions Manchester City at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday afternoon. Martin Odegaard is certainly well aware that the north London club face a tough test against Pep Guardiola’s side.

As quoted by the official Arsenal website ahead of the match, Odegaard has highlighted how Manchester City have changed over the years. He said, “I think they have improved a lot defensively in the past few years, they look really solid.”

“They are a bit more physical now as well compared to some years back, but still they have great quality on the ball as well. With Erling [Haaland] up front as well, they will always be dangerous. So it’s a very strong team and it’s a great challenge for us.”

Arsenal have a very poor recent record against Manchester City in terms of Premier League encounters. Manchester City have won their last twelve matches against the Gunners in the competition. Arsenal last beat Manchester City in the Premier League in December 2015.

If Arsenal are to win the Premier League title race this season, then Mikel Arteta will know how important breaking this hoodoo is. Last season, his side lost out on the trophy by a margin of five points. They dropped six points to City over the course of the campaign. These head-to-head clashes can ultimately be the difference between glory and despair.

Arsenal need talismanic Odegaard

If Arsenal are to triumph this afternoon, then their star players need to turn up and shine. Odegaard is one such individual who Arteta will be relying on to step up. The 24-year-old has to lead by example and play without fear. The Norwegian midfielder needs to have the courage to take the game to City, and trust that his teammates will follow his lead in that regard.

Odegaard has been in fine form so far this season. The £240,000-a-week former Real Madrid ace has already racked up four goals and one assist across all competitions. His influence extends beyond end product too, as he is a tactical leader on the pitch, orchestrates the Arsenal press, and works tirelessly to bring the manager’s vision to fruition in each match.

Arteta clearly sees Odegaard being central to his long-term plans for Arsenal. The 53-cap Norway international being given a new contract in September 2023 is clear evidence of this. Sunday’s clash with Manchester City is a perfect opportunity for the £30 million man to show just why he is held in such high regard.