Injuries arose when Mikel Arteta made the decision to appoint Martin Odegaard as Arsenal’s captain in July 2022, but it turned out to be a genius move.

The 25-year-old has led by example both on and off the field, and he could become the first Gunners captain to win the Premier League title since 2004’s Patrick Vieira.

Odegaard has had a significant impact in north London since joining Real Madrid in January 2021 on a temporary basis.

One of the best character assessors for selecting Odegaard was Arsenal manager Arteta a decade ago, when he led the Gunners for two seasons before retiring in 2016.

Following the departures of Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, the Norwegian took over.

When Odegaard was appointed skipper, Arteta said: “What I’ve seen over the past 18 months since he’s been with us, he’s represented the values of this football club, the team, the team – mates and the staff in the best possible way.

He also serves as the head of his country, which is a decision I think was appropriate because I believe he’s a very capable player who can make that commitment to the club.

Some supporters were surprised by the decision, though.

” I was a bit taken aback, purely based on his age, “says Arsenal fan and YouTuber Pippa Monique.

Odegaard has scored eight goals and eight assists in the top flight this year, setting a high standard for his team-mates to follow.

And he has consistently set the example in his four Premier League appearances this year, scoring the winning goal.

As Arsenal defeated Porto to reach the Champions League quarter-finals for the first time in 14 years, the Norway international also scored the opening penalty of the match.

” I like to take the first kick in those shootouts, I think that’s important for me to do that, and to try to make sure we start well. I enjoy that responsibility, “he said in Arsenal’s match programme before the first leg of their quarter – final tie against Bayern Munich.

Odegaard had the most chances in the 2 – 2 draw with Thomas Tuchel’s side, made the most passes in the final third (29), and averaged 88% passing accuracy in the 2 – 2 draw.

It is not just at club level that Odegaard’s talents are recognised.

Speaking before Arsenal’s goalless draw with title rivals Manchester City, their young forward and Odegaard’s fellow countryman Oscar Bobb said:” It is a dream to play with Martin. Having one of the world’s best number 10s next to me makes it much easier. “

In the 2 – 0 win over Wolves last week Odegaard sealed the victory in stoppage time, finishing from an acute angle to become just the second Arsenal player to register 50 Premier League goal involvements (31 goals, 19 assists) during Arteta’s tenure.

Odegaard renewed his commitment to the Gunners by signing a new contract in September 2023, which will extend his five-year contract with the club.

Arteta earlier this season said, “Martin is crucial to connecting everything in our play.”

Asked how much Odegaard drives the team as captain, he added:” A lot. He’s made huge steps. His presence, the way he is behaving himself in front of the group and the standards that he sets is outstanding. “

He has become a firm favourite for the Emirates faithful, too.

Any fan and manager would want to take over their team, according to Monique, who describes him as a “fabulous talent in midfield and a calm yet authoritative figure that everyone in the team can respect.”

When things start to go wrong, “You can always count on Martin to motivate team members,” says the content creator at Arsenal.

The captain is the first to get the crowd going again, whether we are winning or at 0-2 in search of that breakthrough goal. A few fist bumps and upward arm swings are all it takes from him.

Odegaard is always the last player to leave the pitch as he applauds every fan for their support, regardless of whether they win or lose.