Odegaard Returns to Arsenal Starting Lineup for Olympiacos Clash
Arsenal will field a refreshed side when they host Olympiacos at the Emirates on Wednesday, with captain Martin Odegaard restored to the starting XI after a shoulder complaint kept him out for three matches. The Norwegian midfielder impressed off the bench at St James Park last weekend, and his return is paired with a six-change lineup designed to balance energy, form, and freshness against the Greek side.
In an attacking-minded reshuffle, Odegaard is joined by Viktor Gyokeres leading the line while Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli provide support from wide positions. The midfield pairing of Martin Zubimendi and Mikel Merino offers technical control and bite, with Ben White and Myles Lewis-Skelly stepping in as full-backs to shore up the defence alongside central duo William Saliba and Gabriel.
The other two changes from the side that started against Newcastle United see Merino and Martinelli come into the fold, while Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka and Eberechi Eze are among the substitutes, ready to impact the game as needed.
Starting XI
Arsenal: Raya, White, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly, Zubimendi, Merino, Odegaard, Trossard, Martinelli, Gyokeres.
Substitutes
Subs: Arrizabalaga, Setford, Mosquera, Timber, Calafiori, Norgaard, Nwaneri, Rice, Saka, Eze.
Tactical outlook
The lineup signals a deliberate rotation that aims to balance solidity at the back with the creative thrust in midfield. Odegaard’s presence should supply tempo and link-up play, while Gyokeres’ focal point role tests Olympiacos’ defensive organisation. Zubimendi’s distribution from deep will help drive Arsenal’s play through midfield, and Merino’s energy provides a dynamic counterpoint to the Spaniard’s ball-moving style. The full-back combination of White and Lewis-Skelly adds pace and width while Saliba and Gabriel form a steady central spine.
A look at the squad depth
With Rice, Saka and Eze among the substitutes, the manager has real attacking options to deploy if needed. This is part of a broader plan to manage minutes across a demanding schedule while maintaining competitiveness in Europe.
What to watch
Fans will be watching how quickly Odegaard settles back into the rhythm, how the young Lewis-Skelly handles full-back duties, and whether Gyokeres can convert chances created by Odegaard and Trossard. The Emirates crowd will be keen to see a strong response to the upcoming fixtures as Arsenal push for results on home soil.
