Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has urged Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard to take on more responsibility in crucial moments, arguing that he must step up to win tight games. The Norwegian playmaker featured for the full 90 minutes in Arsenal’s 1-1 draw against Manchester United at Old Trafford but failed to make a decisive impact.
Bruno Fernandes opened the scoring just before halftime, while Declan Rice equalized in the 74th minute. Despite controlling possession for large parts of the game, Arsenal couldn’t find a winner. Scholes believes Odegaard should be the one to provide those moments of brilliance that separate good teams from great ones.
Speaking to Premier League Productions, Scholes praised Odegaard’s technical ability and influence but suggested he lacks the game-changing impact of players like Kevin De Bruyne and Phil Foden. He argued that while Odegaard is an elegant footballer, he needs to step up in key fixtures by delivering crucial goals and assists.
Scholes also shared a mixed opinion on Arsenal’s style of play, comparing them to a “mid-table La Liga team.” He acknowledged their impressive passing and movement but criticized their lack of ruthlessness in front of goal. According to Scholes, Arsenal dominate games yet struggle to convert their possession into silverware-winning performances.
He believes the team’s biggest weakness is their lack of a prolific striker. Arsenal have played fluid attacking football under Mikel Arteta, but without a natural goal scorer, they often fall short in crucial moments. Scholes highlighted the importance of having a player with instinctive finishing ability to make the difference in tight games.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta admitted his frustration with the result at Old Trafford. He felt his team executed their game plan well but lacked the final touch to put United away. Arteta emphasized the need for sharper decision-making in the final third and more cutting-edge attacking play.
With a crucial run of fixtures ahead, Arsenal will need Odegaard and their attacking players to deliver in high-pressure moments. Whether the Norwegian can rise to the challenge and become the match-winner Scholes believes he should be remains to be seen.
Despite sitting second in the Premier League, Arsenal’s struggles in big games raise concerns about their title aspirations. While they remain in a strong position, their inability to win crucial matches could cost them in the race for silverware. Improving their finishing and adding more creativity could be key to their success.