Cesc Fabregas has already said who must replace Martin Odegaard at Arsenal but it would be a mistake

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Arsenal star Martin Odegaard has suffered an MCL injury.

The Norway international has had a torrid start to the season. Despite being in good form, Odegaard suffered shoulder injuries in back-to-back Premier League games.

He overcame that fairly quickly, but a knee issue suffered in the game against West Ham has now sidelined Odegaard until after the November international break.

Arsenal now need a replacement for their captain.

Cesc Fabregas wanted to see Leandro Trossard play in Martin Odegaard’s position after 2024 injury

Martin Odegaard suffered an ankle injury at the start of the 2024/25 season.

That kept him out of action for around two months and severely affected his performances throughout the season.

Arsenal didn’t have much depth in their squad last term. Ethan Nwaneri was the only like-for-like replacement at the time.

Cesc Fabregas, who knows a thing or two about playing as a number 10, urged the Arsenal manager to use Leandro Trossard in that role.

He said on the Planet Premier League podcast last year: “I also would like to see Trossard in midfield.

“I know he likes to come from the wing, but he has the capabilities and qualities to play that role of Odegaard. A little more offensive midfielder, No.8, No.10.

“I think he’s got the qualities to do that.”

Should Mikel Arteta use Leandro Trossard in Martin Odegaard’s position?

Mikel Arteta did deploy Trossard in an attacking midfield role when Odegaard was out last season, but it didn’t really work.

The Belgian is definitely capable of featuring in that position, but he just isn’t as creative as the Norwegian, especially against teams who play a low block.

Arsenal didn’t have much choice last term, but they do now.

Eberechi Eze should be the one starting in Odegaard’s role in the coming weeks, while Nwaneri, who is more experienced now, is also another option.

As for Trossard, we think he’s better off on the left wing or as a false nine. Deploying him in a number 10 role would be a mistake.