Steven Gerrard has praised Martin Odegaard as Arsenal’s technical leader following the captain’s influential cameo in Tuesday night’s Champions League win over Lille.
Steven Gerrard hails Odegaard as Arsenal’s technical leader after Lille win
Gerrard Hails Odegaard’s Magic After Arsenal Beat Lille
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta rotated heavily, making five changes from the weekend’s 2-1 Premier League victory over Leeds United.
The hosts struggled to break down Lille’s disciplined defence in the first half and wasted several promising chances.
Jurrien Timber finally ended the resistance in the 64th minute with a superb finish. Arteta then sent on Kai Havertz, Bukayo Saka and Odegaard, and the substitutes changed the match.
Eberechi Eze doubled the lead from a Saka assist, before Havertz released Saka for the third goal.
Odegaard did not register a goal or assist, but he dictated play. He completed 93 percent of his passes, created two chances and made four recoveries during a 28-minute cameo.
His movement and vision helped Arsenal control the final third.
Gerrard, speaking to TNT Sports via BBC Sport, called Odegaard a technical leader who leads through quality and vision rather than volume.
The Liverpool legend said the Norwegian gives Arsenal something different when opponents sit deep.
Gerrard credited Odegaard with a magical presence that helps him find space and unlock stubborn defences.
Arsenal signed Odegaard from Real Madrid for £30 million in 2021. The 27-year-old has enjoyed a strong season, scoring four goals for the club and performing well for Norway.
Arteta will likely restore Odegaard to the starting XI on Sunday when Arsenal travel to Nottingham Forest.
The City Ground has troubled Arsenal recently: they have won only once in their last six visits and drew the past two away meetings 0-0.
With Manchester City three points clear and boasting a better goal difference, Arsenal cannot afford another slip.
Odegaard’s creativity in the No. 10 role will be crucial as the Gunners chase maximum points.
