Arsenal Should Cut Ties with Odegaard This Summer, Says Pundit

Martin Odegaard's struggles this season have prompted fresh calls for Arsenal to explore alternatives at the top of the midfield, with former Tottenham midfielder Jamie O'Hara suggesting the Gunners captain should be sacrificed in the summer market.

The 27-year-old has endured a forgettable campaign, hampered by injury setbacks and inconsistent performances since arriving from Real Madrid ahead of the 2020/21 season. He claimed the captaincy in 2022 but has failed to deliver the creative spark expected of him this term—a point not lost on observers of the English game.

Manchester United legend Paul Scholes weighed in recently, questioning whether Odegaard truly understands the demands of operating in the number 10 role. The criticism intensified following Wednesday's Champions League semi-final first leg, where Arsenal drew 1-1 with Atletico Madrid at home. Odegaard's withdrawal at the 57-minute mark proved particularly telling for those questioning his current standing.

O'Hara did not mince words when discussing the situation on talkSPORT. He noted that last season hardly represented a vintage campaign either, and suggested that watching the captain hauled off during a European knockout tie sends entirely the wrong message. He believes Arsenal may have outgrown Odegaard and should pursue a player capable of becoming the side's creative focal point—someone who can truly inspire from the middle.

The pundit also questioned whether recent substitute Eze possesses the world-class credentials required for that demanding role, whilst insisting Odegaard must dramatically improve his performances or risk losing both his place and the captaincy.

Declan Rice has emerged as the frontrunner to assume the leadership mantle should Odegaard depart. talkSPORT colleague Jason Cundy championed the midfielder's credentials, highlighting his defensive prowess and composure in possession. Cundy believes Rice's commanding presence and control of proceedings could see him inherit the armband at Arsenal, much as he may do for England.

Reports have already begun circulating that Odegaard could become an "unexpected discard" this summer, with transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano understood to have identified potential replacements for the Norwegian.