Overview
- Arteta praised Martin Ødegaard as the player who "connects everybody" and said Arsenal are stronger with him, with his fitness still uncertain for Bournemouth.
- The captain has started only 13 Premier League games and three of 11 Champions League matches this season after shoulder and knee problems.
- Arsenal Insider reports he has missed 22 games in all competitions, and Arteta said those absences have broken the rhythm he needs.
- Despite a dip in form and calls in some quarters to sell, reporting indicates Arteta wants to keep Ødegaard rather than consider a move.
- His contract enters its final two years in July, pushing Arsenal toward an extension to avoid repeat risks seen with past stars who ran down deals.