In a time of high stakes and intense scrutiny, Arsenal's captain Martin Odegaard finds himself at the center of attention as the Gunners prepare for a crucial Champions League semi-final second leg against Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday night, May 7, 2025. Following a 1-0 defeat in the first leg at the Emirates Stadium, where Ousmane Dembele's early goal proved decisive, the pressure is mounting for Odegaard to deliver a standout performance and help his team secure a place in the final.
Amidst the criticism directed at Odegaard for his recent form, teammate Declan Rice has stepped up to defend the Norwegian midfielder. Rice expressed unwavering support for Odegaard, stating, "I wouldn’t want anyone else being our captain. I think the lads feel the same way about that as well." This sentiment resonates deeply within the Arsenal dressing room, where Odegaard is recognized not just for his skills on the pitch but also for his leadership qualities.
Odegaard's form has been a topic of discussion, particularly after Arsenal's defeat to PSG. Critics have pointed to his lack of impact in key matches, but Rice emphasized the importance of perspective, acknowledging that every player experiences dips in form. "Obviously, everyone has dips in form, I’ve had different dips in form before," Rice noted. "But it doesn’t matter because he can deliver on the biggest stage, and tomorrow night I’m sure he will. We’re ready and we’re always with Martin because he’s one of our best players."
The statistics paint a mixed picture for Odegaard this season. After a stellar campaign in 2022/23, where he registered 22 goal involvements in 45 appearances, his numbers have dipped significantly in the Premier League. This season, he has managed only two goals and seven assists in 27 appearances. Such a decline has led some to question his effectiveness, especially in crucial moments. However, those who watch Arsenal regularly understand that his influence extends beyond mere statistics.
Norway's national team manager Stale Solbakken also came to Odegaard's defense, suggesting that critics may be spoiled by his consistently high performance levels. "He is the one I worry about the least in the whole world," Solbakken remarked. "Martin is always consistently good. He has had better matches, but he perhaps played more than a normal match. Many (critics) are spoiled because he has played some huge games for Arsenal."
Odegaard's leadership qualities have been instrumental for Arsenal this season. After suffering an ankle injury during the September international break, he missed several games, during which Arsenal dropped points in four of the seven matches. His return helped the team stabilize, as they went on an impressive run of 14 league games unbeaten between November and February, despite facing injuries to other key players like Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, and Kai Havertz.
In addition to his on-field contributions, Odegaard's work ethic and lifestyle have earned him the respect of his teammates. Rice highlighted this aspect, stating, "He trains every single day, he plays every minute of every game. He’s one of the best lads I’ve seen away from the pitch in terms of how he lives his life. He’s got the full respect of the dressing room, the way he demands, the way he drives the team, the way he speaks."
As the Gunners head to Paris, Odegaard's experience and ability to perform under pressure will be crucial. He has already played over 700 minutes in European competitions this season, and with the chance to become the first Arsenal captain to lead the team into a Champions League final since Thierry Henry in 2006, the stakes couldn't be higher.
Odegaard's recent performances have included a notable assist in the Premier League against Bournemouth, bringing his season tally to 16 goals and assists. This is particularly impressive considering he spent two months sidelined due to injury. His ability to bounce back and contribute to the team's success is a testament to his character and skill.
Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown has previously stated that Odegaard is integral to the team's success, claiming, "He’s created 102 chances – more than anyone in the Premier League – and 41 times he’s retrieved the ball in the final third, so in and out of possession, I’m struggling to think of a more important player in the Premier League." This assertion speaks volumes about Odegaard's role within the team, highlighting that his contributions go far beyond goals and assists.
As Arsenal gears up for their pivotal clash against PSG, the team knows they can rely on Odegaard to lead by example. With Rice and Solbakken backing him, the captain has the support of his teammates and coaches as they aim to overturn the first-leg deficit and secure a spot in the final. The match on Wednesday night presents Odegaard with the perfect opportunity to silence his critics and showcase his true capabilities on one of football's biggest stages.
With the Gunners determined to make their mark in the Champions League, all eyes will be on Odegaard as he prepares to take the field in Paris. Will he rise to the occasion and help Arsenal achieve their goal, or will the pressure prove too much? One thing is for certain: the outcome of this match will be crucial for both Odegaard's reputation and Arsenal's aspirations in Europe.
