Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka react as Martin Odegaard responds to Arsenal criticism
Martin Odegaard has taken to social media to send a message to Arsenal fans amid a barrage of criticism for his recent poor performances.
The Norwegian has been with the Gunners since 2021, and was made club captain by Mikel Arteta three years ago.
However, this season the 26-year-old failed to hit the heights of previous campaigns, as the North London side went trophyless once again.
Arsenal finished second in the Premier League for the third year on the spin, and exited both the Champions League and the League Cup and the semi-final stage.
Odegaard sends message to Arsenal fans
Odegaard has been repeatedly slammed by Arsenal fans in recent months for his inability to perform in big games.
The Gunners’ captain was woeful as Arteta’s side were brushed aside by PSG in the semi-finals of the Champions League, failing to impact either leg of the tie.
However, despite the criticism the midfielder has been receiving in recent times, he has chosen to thank the fans who have stuck by him rather than responding to those who have been unhappy with his performances.
Odegaard took to Instagram after the North London’s side season came to an end last weekend, posting a photo of himself during a game, with the caption: “We won’t stop until we achieve what we want!
“Thank you all for your support. See you next season!”
Arsenal teammates Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka both liked the post to show support and appreciation for their captain.
Odegaard must return to his best
Football Insider Verdict
This season, not only did Odegaard’s performances dip away, but his output went down dramatically as well compared to previous campaigns.
The Arsenal skipper made 30 appearances in the Premier League in 2024/25, scoring three goals and picking up eight assists.
However, compare this to the previous domestic campaign, where he scored eight and assisted ten, as well as the 2022/23 season where he managed 22 goal contributions, and you will notice a worrying downwards trend.
| Season | Games | Goals | Assists |
| 2024/25 | 30 | 3 | 8 |
| 2023/24 | 35 | 8 | 10 |
| 2022/23 | 37 | 15 | 7 |
There have been calls for youngster Ethan Nwaneri to replace Odegaard in Arteta’s starting lineup, and should the Norway international’s poor performances continue, these shouts will only grow louder.
With such talent waiting in the wings, the former Real Madrid man will have to step up next season, to ensure he isn’t replaced.