Martin Odegaard is being shown up by two unlikely Arsenal teammates – they’re the league’s best

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Mikel Arteta needs his players to step up as Arsenal continue to combat a dire injury situation in attack.

It’s been a long time since Arteta had his first choice front line available to him, with the Gunners’ misery ultimately starting when Bukayo Saka suffered a hamstring tear.

After successfully undergoing surgery, Saka’s projected return is early April but until then, Arsenal will have to struggle on with limited reinforcements.

As well as the England international, Gabriel Martinelli, Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz are injured, leaving the Arsenal manager with three fit senior attackers.

• READ MORE: Every injury Arsenal have suffered in 2024/25 including Bukayo Saka absence and more

Arsenal’s key creators identified in surprising statistic 

In the absence of several key players in attack, Arteta is calling on those remaining in the squad to step up at a time of dire need.

Mikel Merino showed his worth against Leicester City, being unfazed as he was called into action as a makeshift striker, scoring a brace to win Arsenal the game.

As well as Merino, it’s become clear that two other players are making their presence known in an area that some may not expect.

While Martin Odegaard is Arsenal’s top creative outlet, the Norwegian is actually being outperformed by two of his teammates, who are also outperforming the entire Premier League.

Only Declan Rice and Leandro Trossard have created five or more big chances in the Premier League in 2025, showcasing the level to which the pair have cranked up their games.

Rice’s contribution in front of goal has been celebrated this campaign, with the numbers also proving that Trossard deserves his flowers, being a player who has impressed in recent weeks.

Arsenal lead the way for creativity in the Premier League

When looking into the statistic, it makes for encouraging reading for the Gunners, as Rice has created six big chances, followed closely by Trossard on five.

Below the pair are an array of attacking talent on four big chances created, with Arsenal leading the way in terms of carving out big chances.

While it’s something to be celebrated, it’s equally frustrating, as despite having two of the leading creators in their ranks, Arsenal aren’t scoring as freely as desired due to a lack of presence leading the line.

Fans will pose the question as to how far the squad could go if a reliable number nine was available to Arteta, with plenty of talent behind the leading figure.