Mikel Arteta has long had courage in his own convictions, but here's why dropping Martin Odegaard amid the outside noise was so important, writes ISAAN KHAN
Steadfast in his convictions, the Spaniard typically does not listen to the outside noise. Having gone three league matches without a victory, Leeds away had, strangely, become a crunch game for the Gunners. Not because Daniel Farke's men match up to Arsenal's in terms of ability or title ambition. The fervour around Odegaard's limited performances this season has been loud, supporters calling for Arteta to drop the midfielder. It is how a side responds to them across a campaign which dictates who will finish top on May 24.
Source: Daily Mail February 01, 2026 07:13 UTC
