Paul Scholes has launched a scathing attack on Arsenal star Martin Odegaard, labelling his current role a 'big problem' for the Gunners. Despite Arsenal moving three points clear at the top of the Premier League table with a 1-0 victory over Newcastle United on Saturday evening, Scholes was far from impressed with Odegaard's performance.
Scholes: Odegaard Plays Too Deep
Speaking on the latest Overlap Fan Debate, the Manchester United legend did not hold back. 'I think Odegaard is a big problem for them,' Scholes fumed. 'I love Odegaard, I think he's brilliant. Technically he's great, but he doesn't play his position properly.'
Scholes highlighted that Odegaard was often the deepest Arsenal player in the opening stages of the match. 'Half the time I saw him in the first 20 minutes, he is almost the deepest man...that football, it's just bull***t,' he added.
Number Ten Role Under Scrutiny
The former England international believes Odegaard, as a number ten, should be connecting midfield to attack. 'Whether they have been told that or not, Odegaard is a number ten and connects your midfield to your forward play, and you wonder why there is no flow in your team when he is behind Zubimendi and Rice.'
Scholes also noted that Bukayo Saka's absence exacerbated the issue. 'I do also think Saka not being there is a problem because I think Odegaard does connect well with Saka. Once he gets in those positions in behind midfield, Saka is off and running.'
Arsenal's win over Newcastle, secured by Eberechi Eze's first-half strike, keeps them top of the table, but Scholes' comments suggest underlying tactical concerns remain.
