Overview
- Martin Odegaard delivered a man-of-the-match performance in Arsenal’s 3-0 Community Shield win over Manchester City, capped by a composed goal that completed a dominant team display.
- His 2025–26 campaign was heavily disrupted by knee, shoulder and muscle problems that limited him to 16 Premier League starts and his lowest goal and assist totals since joining Arsenal.
- Norway’s World Cup run gave Odegaard a form and confidence lift, with national coach Ståle Solbakken saying the player felt important again and tournament statistics crediting him with multiple assists.
- Odegaard said he will use last season’s struggles as motivation and praised new signing Bruno Guimarães for an immediate on-field connection that adds midfield support.
- Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta warned that sustained fitness will determine Odegaard’s impact this season and team observers say a fit, confident captain could reclaim the club’s chief-creator role and strengthen Arsenal’s title defence.