Martin Odegaard scored the only goal of the game as Arsenal beat Napoli in the Champions League, continuing to prove that he remains one of the most important players in Mikel Arteta’s team.
The midfielder struggled for form and fitness last season, but he has looked like a different player since the start of this campaign. Odegaard has rediscovered his best level and continues to demonstrate that he has the quality to trouble even the strongest opponents.
Napoli are regarded as one of the strongest defensive teams in European football, and they knew they would have to frustrate Arsenal to have a chance of getting a result. However, the Gunners repeatedly found ways through their defensive structure.
Arsenal were persistent as they pushed for an opening goal and could have scored as many as five times if they had been more clinical. Odegaard was at the centre of their attacking play, controlling the midfield and helping his team maintain pressure throughout the contest.
Odegaard delivers another winner
It was eventually Odegaard who produced the decisive moment, scoring the all important goal that secured another important victory for Arsenal. The result also means he has now scored the winning goal in back to back matches, underlining his growing influence.
His return to form is particularly encouraging after a difficult previous campaign. Arsenal need their captain performing at his best if they are to compete for major honours, and his recent performances suggest he is once again approaching the level expected of him.
Praise for Arsenal captain
Pundit Charlie Adam highlighted Odegaard’s importance and his strong start to the season when speaking on the BBC:
“Coming off the back of a Odegaard’s season last year with the frustration, when didn’t hit the heights that we expected, he has started this season really well.
“At his best, Odegaard makes Arsenal look much more competitive – and they are probably still the team to beat in the Premier League.
“Naples is a tough place to go and to win 1-0 away from home, he [Arteta] will be delighted with that.”
The comments underline just how important Odegaard can be to Arsenal when he is playing with confidence. His recent displays have helped the Gunners secure valuable victories, while his goals have also provided decisive moments when his team needed them most.
With Odegaard continuing to rediscover his best form, Arsenal will hope their captain can maintain this level and remain a key figure throughout the season.
