Arsenal are certainly smashing this summer’s transfer window, having secured both Martin Odegaard and Aaron Ramsdale in the last few days, to add to their other new signings made earlier in the window.
Mikel Arteta clearly means business, and after a poor showing in the Premier League throughout the 2020/21 campaign, it’s certainly encouraging to see the Spaniard taking the bull by the horns and dealing with the situation head on.
However, his current modus operandi hasn’t curried favour with one former Arsenal legend, who has questioned the wisdom of signing Martin Odegaard.
“Odegaard came in after Boxing Day,” Martin Keown said on talkSPORT, cited by the Mirror.
“Yes the results improved largely. He played 16 times, nine starts, five [substitute appearances], one goal and two assists [sic].
“I think Smith Rowe is a better player in that position. But if the manager feels this Odegaard can bring something extra to the group then time will tell again.”
It’s a fair assumption to make, particularly as the young Norwegian kept Smith Rowe out of the starting line up on a few occasions during the latter part of last season.
Perhaps half way through the current campaign will be a better time to judge how well Arteta’s transfer market business was, and whether he was right to go all-in on Odegaard or not.
Having attacking creativity and striking challenges, He[Arteta] and co[Edu] went on to push for 2defence and a midfield. Now urgently need Odegaard and Aaron after defeat at Brenf. and 2days to TuChelsea. What a bumbshell.
He was there and WE finished 8th, we had Martinez and get New Keeper to compete Leno.
Arteta and Edu are a losing duo ruining this club’s over 2 decades legacy in 18month Time making us a confirmed midtable team they belong to….
We will be in bottom spot by third spot and unless Conte steps in then, we’ll remain in relegation zone at least til 13th game, first third to mid season.