‘Phenomenal’ Odegaard given ‘total freedom’ to shine

Mikel Arteta wants Martin Odegaard to take chances and contribute more creatively to the team.

The Norway midfielder’s performance against Olympiacos on Wednesday demonstrated why he is such a key player for the Gunners.

After a stumbling start to the season with a shoulder injury, manager Arteta has given the 26-year-old “total freedom” to show off his talent.

The Spaniard said, “I believe creativity is his natural trait.” It is his best chance to generate things that few other players can, and it doesn’t put any pressure on him.

He has the complete freedom to explore, take risks, and feel the movement in how he creates spaces, which he has done the last two games.

Odegaard suffered shoulder injuries in the opening game of the Premier League victory over Nottingham Forest, where he was first hurt before returning from the previous injury.

His passing and attacking drive contributed to his side’s comeback in the dramatic 2-1 win over Newcastle on Sunday, when he missed three games but made a substitute comeback.

Odegaard, who had been playing for Olympiacos, dictated play alongside Martin Zubimendi and Mikel Merino, but was denied a goal by Panagiotis Retsos’ superb save and follow-up block.

He “has all the license to go forward,” Arteta asserted.

“And to play with that level of play, threat, and that freedom. Not just with the passes, but also with his approach to carrying the ball, making runs, and arriving in risky locations.

He should have also have scored a goal if he had put three people through. I think [he played some very good minutes in Newcastle to help us win the game, and here] he was phenomenal.

This year, Arsenal changed their approach to play, focusing more on maximizing the potential of their new signings, especially striker Viktor Gyokeres.

Tzolakis pushed the finish past the post during the Swede’s powerful burst, and Martinelli tapped in the rebound for the opener in the 12th minute.

Odegaard made the pass, saying, “That’s what I want to do, especially with those forward players, especially with Viktor, who is always a threat.”