Mikel Arteta finds himself confronting an unusual problem at Arsenal - one that most managers would gladly welcome. The Gunners boss faces a significant selection dilemma that could define his team's Premier League title challenge this season.
The Emergence of Eberechi Eze
While captain Martin Odegaard has been sidelined with injury, summer signing Eberechi Eze has seized his opportunity in spectacular fashion. The England international delivered a memorable hat-trick against Tottenham, demonstrating his capability as Arsenal's chief playmaker from a deeper midfield role.
Former Chelsea winger and BBC pundit Pat Nevin recently branded established stars like Odegaard and Bukayo Saka as 'expendable' given the quality added during the summer transfer window. Nevin's controversial comments highlight the remarkable depth Arteta has built within his squad.
Statistical Battle: Eze vs Odegaard
Using Data MB's comparison model, the statistical analysis reveals surprising findings. Despite Eze's current excellent form, the numbers suggest Odegaard should reclaim his starting position when fully fit.
The Norwegian captain offers superior control in possession and possesses a passing range that consistently puts Arsenal on the front foot. Both players operate as attacking midfielders but approach the role with distinctly different styles.
There remains potential for both talents to feature together in matches where Arsenal dominate possession, but for now, the statistics indicate Odegaard holds the edge.
Why Arteta Won't Drop His Captain
Speaking ahead of the season opener against Manchester United, Arteta explained his reasoning for making Odegaard captain via the club's official website. 'Martin has got hundreds of qualities', Arteta emphasised, highlighting the midfielder's quiet leadership as particularly valuable.
The manager revealed that during the player and staff voting process, Odegaard was chosen 'by a mile, by a big, big 100 marks' by everyone involved. This overwhelming support makes dropping the respected captain an unlikely scenario, regardless of Eze's impressive performances.
Arteta faces the classic manager's conundrum: stick with the in-form player or reinstate the established leader who commands universal respect within the dressing room. With Arsenal currently cruising at the Premier League summit, this selection headache represents the kind of problem Arteta will be delighted to solve.
