Martin Odegaard’s absence exposes Arsenal’s lack of creativity in Newcastle defeat | OneFootball

Arsenal struggled without Martin Odegaard during their 1-0 defeat to Newcastle United on Saturday, as the Gunners created just one significant chance.

Alexander Isak’s early goal from Anthony Gordon’s cross set the tone, and Arsenal looked clueless in response.

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 02: Declan Rice of Arsenal reacts during the Premier League match between Newcastle United FC and Arsenal FC at St James’ Park on November 02, 2024 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

Odegaard’s absence has left a creative void that highlights his importance to Arsenal’s midfield. The Norwegian midfielder, who has been sidelined with ankle ligament damage since September, has been the heartbeat of Mikel Arteta’s side.

His absence has coincided with a noticeable decline in Arsenal’s attacking threat, and their failure to break down an organised Newcastle side only served to further highlight how much they miss his influence.

The creative void without Odegaard

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 02: Bukayo Saka of Arsenal reacts during the Premier League match between Newcastle United FC and Arsenal FC at St James’ Park on November 02, 2024 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

Without Odegaard, Arsenal’s attacking play once again lacked its usual fluidity. The Gunners managed just one shot on target throughout the match—an alarming statistic for a side with title ambitions.

Declan Rice missed a late chance to equalise, but Nick Pope was rarely troubled. Arsenal dominated possession, holding 64% of the ball, but they simply could not find the creativity needed to unlock Newcastle’s defence.

Mikel Arteta had to rule Odegaard out of the Newcastle clash, although there is some optimism regarding his return. Speaking before the match, Arteta gave an encouraging update: “Now is the stage when he will do certain work with us. Let’s see how he deals with pain, if he moves naturally enough, if he is physically now at the level that requires him to compete.”

Despite these hopes, it was clear that Arsenal are missing their captain’s spark, and it cost them dearly.

LONDON, ENGLAND: Martin Odegaard of Arsenal warms up prior to the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Brighton & Hove Albion FC at Emirates Stadium on August 31, 2024. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

Odegaard’s injury recovery progress

Odegaard has been dealing with ankle ligament damage since Norway’s clash with Austria in September. There has been progress, with reports suggesting he could return to training soon.

However, his timeline for a full return remains uncertain and Arsenal have felt his absence acutely; Odegaard still leads the Premier League in chances created from open play this season despite missing several weeks, a testament to his irreplaceable role.

Against Newcastle, Arsenal struggled to find any consistent rhythm. David Raya made crucial saves to keep Arsenal in the game, but even with Ethan Nwaneri introduced in search of a creative spark, the Gunners were unable to find the back of the net.

Odegaard’s vision, movement, and leadership on the pitch were all sorely missed as Arsenal’s attack faltered.

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 02: Alexander Isak of Newcastle United scores his team’s first goal during the Premier League match between Newcastle United FC and Arsenal FC at St James’ Park on November 02, 2024 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

Upcoming fixtures and hopes for Odegaard’s return

With critical fixtures approaching, including a trip to Milan to face Inter and an away day at Stamford Bridge against Chelsea, Arsenal will be hoping for Odegaard’s return sooner rather than later.

Arteta and his staff are being cautious, ensuring that the Norwegian is fully fit before making his competitive comeback. A potential return for the Chelsea match seems the most likely scenario, which could provide the boost Arsenal desperately need.

As the Gunners slip down the table, the pressure is mounting. Without Odegaard, Arsenal’s title credentials look increasingly fragile. His creative influence, leadership, and ability to dictate the tempo of matches are irreplaceable assets that Arsenal simply cannot do without if they are to maintain a genuine challenge for the Premier League crown.