Fans hailed the performance of midfielder Martin Odegaard as Arsenal opened their Premier League title defence with a statement 3-0 verdict over Championship winners Coventry City at the Emirates on Friday (August 21).
The Gunners broke the deadlock through Kai Havertz in the 15th minute before Bukayo Saka doubled their advantage eight minutes later. Martin Odegaard applied the coup de grace three minutes after the break as Mikel Arteta’s side laid down a marker to the rest of the competition.
Having also scored in the 3-0 FA Community Shield against Manchester City in Cardiff last weekend, Odegaard scored for the second game running, earning plaudits from fans:
“Martin Odegaard back to his brilliant best. Make your apologies as loud as your disrespect. You know who you are,” one tweeted.
“Odegaard seems like he’s really enjoying football since the World Cup Felt totally opposite last season Huge for us,” another commented.
“The World Cup transformed Odegaard and reshaped his mentality. Eze might get benched for many games this season,” one commented.
“Some ungrateful Arsenal fans wanted him out,” another posted.
“Martin Odegaard, there are statements to be made this season,” one tweeted.
The loss meant that Frank Lampard has won just one of his last 18 Premier League games as manager, losing 13, and failing to keep a clean sheet in 17 straight matches, with his Coventry team losing on their return to the competition after 25 years.
What’s next for Arsenal?
Following their comprehensive opening-day victory in the Premier League as they seek back-to-back league titles for the first time in nearly a century, Arsenal return to action after 10 days.
Mikel Arteta’s side next travel to Aston Villa for their first away game of the campaign before hosting Xabi Alonso’s Chelsea six days later at the Emirates, hoping to continue their winning run.
Last season, the Gunners ended a 22-year league title drought since registering a historic ‘Invincibles’ triumph under the legendary Arsene Wenger. Fast forward two decades, they finished runners-up three straight times before winning the title again last season.
Edited by Bhargav
You must be logged in to post a comment Login