Football Fan View | Which player should replace the injured Odegaard for Arsenal?

It has been revealed that Martin Ødegaard will be out for six weeks with a knee injury

Previously, injury to a key player like this would have caused a panic. Now, there seems to be a number of replacements in their squad.

Author | DJ

Impossible to not have sympathy for Martin Odegaard as injury strikes again 💔

Football can be a cruel game and is a considerably more stylish one when he is on the field. Hoping it's nothing serious 🤞 pic.twitter.com/uPYE724FnD

— Men in Blazers (@MenInBlazers) October 4, 2025

We asked supporters for their views on who Mikel Arteta should turn to while Odegaard recovers from injury. Eberechi Eze, Ethan Nwaneri or Mikel Merino?

Fan opinion split

Alex: I really hope Arteta doesn’t turn back to Merino. The Zubimendi-Rice-Merino combination hasn’t clicked, so there’s little sense in repeating it. Eze feels like the obvious choice. It’s his natural position from his Crystal Palace days, and even if the goals and assists haven’t quite come yet, he’s shown his quality there.

Karen: It has to be Eze, surely? If not, what was the point in spending that sort of money on him? This is exactly the kind of moment where he needs to step up.

Arsenal v Manchester City

Neil: Nwaneri is the closest thing we have to Odegaard, so if Arteta wants a like-for-like replacement, he should go with him. That said, it depends on the game. Eze brings a spark, particularly against sides who sit deep, because he’s willing to take risks – whether that’s shooting from distance or attempting a clever flick or pass. Merino is dependable and adaptable, but lacks that dynamism and quick thinking you need in a number 10. Much has been made of our squad depth, and Arteta will need to be crystal clear in how he uses his options if Arsenal are to compete for the major trophies.

Harry: Losing Odegaard is a real setback. I’d probably go with Merino, though Eze could fill the role too.

Tim: Nwaneri deserves a shot. I’m not sure Arteta fully trusts him yet, but he’s the only one with the vision and passing range that mirrors Odegaard. Given a proper run, he could show he’s capable of being Odegaard’s long-term successor.