Real Madrid loanee Martin Odegaard was handed his second consecutive start for Arsenal in the 1-1 draw with Benfica in the first leg of their Europa League Round of 32 tie. The Norwegian held down the playmaking role behind the striker once again, and his performance was a familiar one to Gunners fans.
Arsenal appear to have found the perfect replacement for Mesut Ozil in Martin Odegaard, but the likeness may be a little too uncanny for Mikel Arteta.
Real Madrid loanee Odegaard was handed his second consecutive start in the 1-1 draw with Benfica after seeing out the majority of last weekend’s win over Leeds.
And the Norwegian showed glimpses in the Europa League clash of why he was once coveted as the most exciting youngster on the planet.
Equally, Odegaard also showed why he has not yet hit the levels many were expecting him to a few years ago and why he has not made it at Real yet.
Arsenal’s perfect Mesut Ozil replacement highlights issue Mikel Arteta has not resolved (Image: GETTY)
The truth of the matter is one that is all too familiar to Arsenal fans who have watched Ozil for years - the lack of a killer edge.
There were several times Odegaard found himself in space as a result of his own work, but when a shot was required, the 22-year-old was hesitant, and looked for a pass instead.
If it’s silky football with an end product that flatters to deceive, it’s what Gunners supporters will get.
Martin Odegaard started again for Arsenal against Benfica (Image: GETTY)
Invalid email
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
Fortunately, Odegaard is still finding his feet in an Arsenal shirt, but the Norway international’s goal record isn’t exactly the best.
He’s still young, and there is still time for Arteta to drill that killer instinct into him, but it needs to happen fast.
There is serious talk of Odegaard joining Arsenal permanently, and on the face of it it seems like a stellar move for the Gunners given his age and potential.
But the way he operates is essentially the same as Ozil - is that the sort of player Arteta wants in his squad for the next seven or eight years?