Martin Odegaard’s Arsenal future has been called into question after Joe Cole suggested the club could consider selling their captain this summer.
The former England international made the claim while discussing Arsenal’s next steps in the transfer market. He also urged the club to target a PSG attacker as part of their evolution under Mikel Arteta.
Odegaard has endured a difficult campaign compared to previous seasons. Injuries have disrupted his rhythm, while his influence in key moments has dropped. As a result, debate around his long-term role has started to grow.
However, this remains a bold claim given Odegaard’s importance to Arteta’s system and leadership group.
Joe Cole suggests Arsenal could move on
Cole believes Arsenal may soon face tough decisions as their squad continues to develop.
He pointed to the emergence of young midfielder Max Dowman as a potential factor. The teenager has impressed within the club and continues to generate excitement about his long-term role.
That view contrasts sharply with Arteta’s stance. The manager has remained supportive of his captain despite a challenging season, as highlighted in our previous breakdown of Odegaard’s recent performances and injury setbacks.
Injuries and form spark debate
Odegaard’s struggles this season have largely stemmed from recurring injury issues.
The Norwegian has started fewer matches than expected and has struggled to maintain consistency. In addition, his output in front of goal has dropped, raising questions about his attacking impact.
As noted in our Arsenal vs Manchester City player ratings, several key players failed to reach their usual level on the day.
Even so, it is important to recognise the broader context. Odegaard has previously been one of Arsenal’s most reliable performers and remains central to their build-up play.
Transfer links add another layer
Cole also encouraged Arsenal to strengthen their attack, specifically mentioning PSG winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.
The suggestion aligns with recent reports linking Arsenal with wide forwards ahead of the summer window. The club has already been credited with interest in players who can add pace and unpredictability in the final third.
Those links highlight a clear intention to evolve the squad. However, strengthening in wide areas does not necessarily require sacrificing key midfield leaders.
Dowman emergence changes conversation
The emergence of Max Dowman has added an interesting dimension to the discussion.
The young midfielder represents the next phase of Arsenal’s long-term planning. As covered in our Max Dowman analysis, his development could eventually reshape the midfield hierarchy.
However, expecting him to replace Odegaard immediately would be premature. Arsenal still require experience, control, and leadership during a crucial period.
Arsenal unlikely to rush major decision
While Cole’s comments will generate headlines, Arsenal are unlikely to rush into a decision regarding Odegaard’s future.
Arteta has consistently backed his captain, and the club remains focused on competing across multiple fronts. With major fixtures ahead, stability will take priority over speculation.
Ultimately, Odegaard’s Arsenal future will depend on how he finishes the season. If he regains form and fitness, this conversation may fade quickly.
For now, it remains an external opinion rather than a reflection of Arsenal’s internal thinking.
