Odegaard back in starting lineup as Arsenal face Olympiacos at the Emirates
Martin Odegaard is back in the starting XI for Arsenal as they prepare to host Olympiacos at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday. The captain returns to lead the attack after a shoulder injury kept him out for three matches, making a timely return following his impactful substitute appearance against Newcastle at St James’ Park. His return completes a six-player reshuffle that signals manager Mikel Arteta’s plans to balance rest with renewed attacking intent in a midweek European fixture.
Six changes signal a tactical shake-up
The lineup reveals a notable rotation from the side that faced Newcastle United. In addition to Odegaard’s inclusion, defender Ben White and youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly start as full-backs, while William Saliba partners Gabriel in central defense. The other changes see Mikel Merino and Gabriel Martinelli coming into the side, with Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka and Eberechi Eze named among the substitutes. The fresh setup suggests a desire to restore balance in midfield and inject fresh legs and ideas across the frontline.
Starting XI and what it suggests about Arsenal’s approach
Arsenal’s stated formation appears to prioritize solidity at the back and control in midfield while still keeping an attacking edge. The back four is built around Raya in goal with White at right-back, Saliba and Gabriel as the central pairing, and Lewis-Skelly deployed on the left. In midfield, Viktor Gyokeres continues as the central striker with Martin Zubimendi and Merino providing a screen in front of the defense, allowing Odegaard to play higher up the pitch and act as the creative hub. Trossard supports the attack from the left, with Martinelli likely operating on the right flank. This structure aims to balance compact defending with quick transitions to exploit space behind Olympiacos’ full-backs.
Key players returning and those coming off the bench
The return of Odegaard is the headline act, but the reintroduction of Merino and Martinelli adds depth and pace to the midfield and forward line. Gyokeres’ hold-up play and finishing ability give Arsenal a reliable focal point, while Zubimendi’s distribution helps to maintain possession and tempo. The bench features a mix of experience and youth, including Rice, Saka, and Eze, offering options to adjust the approach if required. The selection underscores Arteta’s willingness to rotate while maintaining a core spine around Odegaard, Zubimendi, and Gyokeres.
What this means for the game against Olympiacos
Arsenal will be keen to secure a positive result at home and build momentum ahead of tougher fixtures. Odegaard’s return is a clear signal that the captain will be required to drive the tempo and create chances, while Merino and Zubimendi provide balance in front of the defense. Gyokeres’ role as the central striker gives the team a recognizable target in the box, potentially freeing up Odegaard to link with Trossard and Martinelli in wide areas. Olympiacos will look to press and disrupt Arsenal’s rhythm, so a disciplined performance from the back four and midfield trio will be crucial for cutting off their supply lines.
Fans’ perspective and what to watch for
Supporters will be watching how Odegaard settles back into the starting lineup after a layoff and whether Merino and Zubimendi can sharpen Arsenal’s ball progression. The inclusion of White and Lewis-Skelly at full-back should provide width and defensive cover against Olympiacos’ pace on the wings. With Saka and Eze on the bench, Arsenal have credible options to change the game if required in the latter stages. Overall, the team’s balance and the captain’s influence will be key factors as Arsenal aim to begin the tie with intent and secure a solid result on home soil.
