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Arteta praises Ødegaard and Gyökeres ahead of UCL clash

By on October 1, 2025

Mikel Arteta has praised both Martin Ødegaard and Viktor Gyökeres following their standout performances in Arsenal’s 2–1 win over Newcastle United.

The result moved the Gunners to within two points of Liverpool at the top of the Premier League.

Attention now turns to the Champions League, where Arsenal travel to face Olympiacos on Wednesday night.

Ødegaard earns his manager’s praise

Odegaard came off the bench against Newcastle and changed the game, helping the Gunners come from behind to score two late goals.

At his pre-match press conference, Arteta was asked about Ødegaard’s display against Newcastle and made it clear how impressed he was with his captain’s influence on the match.

“He was very good, he came on and immediately you could see the desire and the responsibility to get in the game, to try to change it. 

He spoke highly of the Norwegian’s leadership and technical quality, which set the tone for Arsenal in a hard-fought win.

“His decision making, the way he approached every ball, made a difference to help us win the game.”

Gyökeres stands tall against Newcastle defence

The Arsenal boss also turned his attention to Gyökeres, who was tasked with leading the line against a physical Newcastle backline.

“I loved it. I absolutely loved how he took it,” Arteta said when asked about the striker’s performance.

He explained that Gyökeres never allowed frustration to creep in, even when refereeing calls went against him.

“He went on board, not a single moment when he’s showing frustration. I told him, you’re going to get some decisions, some others not, stand up. You’re going to have two or three players around you in many moments, the ball is in the air and a lot is going to happen.”

Arteta praised the striker’s reaction to the physical battle and his ability to stay emotionally composed.

“But I loved his reaction, I loved the way he handled the situation emotionally, and as well because he was involved in a lot of dangerous moments that he created.”

Adapting quickly to Premier League life

With Kai Havertz currently out injured, Gyökeres has carried the responsibility of leading the attack.

Arteta believes the Swede has embraced the challenge seamlessly.

“In a really natural, organic way, I would say. He’s a really confident boy. His work ethic is incredible,” he said.

“The demands that he puts in himself every single day, it’s a joy to work with him. He gives so much to the team and the ceiling is very, very far but he can still give to the team, so I’m very happy with him.”

What’s next for Arsenal

The Gunners sit second in the league table and will face West Ham United at the weekend. Before that, though, they shift focus to their Champions League clash against Olympiacos.