Aasif Rahman

Fri 16 May 2025 11:12, UK

Martin Odegaard had an upbeat message for Arsenal supporters despite growing criticism surrounding his recent form.

The Arsenal captain has endured an underwhelming season by his usual standards, reflecting the club’s frustrating campaign, which will end without any silverware.

Odegaard came under fire from Arsenal fans following the recent 2-2 draw with Liverpool, with frustration mounting over his struggles to influence key matches throughout the season.

Mikel Arteta’s side are preparing to face Newcastle on 18 May, a fixture that could have major implications on their league position. A defeat to the Magpies would see Arsenal drop to third place, with Newcastle leapfrogging them into second.

Still, amid the growing criticism and pressure, the Norwegian shared a message aimed at supporters as the team wraps up preparations for the weekend’s crucial clash.

Martin Odegaard is ‘proud’ to wear Arsenal shirt in new kit launch

Odegaard shared a message of pride after Arsenal unveiled their new home kit for the upcoming season as the midfielder took to Instagram to post a photo wearing the kit, alongside the caption: “Wearing it with pride” followed by a heart emoji.

Several of his teammates showed their support, with Bukayo Saka, William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes all liking the post.

The camaraderie remains strong within the squad despite growing scrutiny from fans over the midfielder’s performances this season.

Some Arsenal supporters have even called for Odegaard to be stripped of the captaincy, particularly in the wake of the club’s Champions League exit to PSG, where his display was widely criticised.

His overall campaign has fallen short of expectations, with only five goals from 43 appearances in all competitions, with just two coming in the league.

Arsenal may look to Ethan Nwaneri as Martin Odegaard struggles continue

With Odegaard under increasing pressure, the Gunners may already have a potential long-term successor developing within the club.

Football Insider previously revealed that Ethan Nwaneri is beginning to put pressure on Odegaard following a breakthrough season that’s seen the 18-year-old emerge as a standout prospect.

He has scored nine goals and provided two assists across all competitions, clocking over 1,300 minutes — a remarkable return for a teenager still in the early stages of his senior career with limited gametime.

Back in March, Football Insider revealed that Arsenal were close to securing a new long-term deal for Nwaneri, amid interest from Manchester City. Should his form continue, a regular spot in the starting XI could be his next step — potentially at the expense of Odegaard.