Mikel Arteta let go of Martin Odegaard’s perfect replacement

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta with Martin Odegaard during a training session at Sobha Realty Training Centre on August 30, 2024 in London Colney, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

Emile Smith Rowe left the club in the summer due to his struggle to establish a regular position in the Arsenal team.

Former Liverpool striker Stan Collymore condemns Arsenal’s transfer policy, particularly the decision to sell Emile Smith Rowe. Speaking to Metro, he said: “Emile Smith Rowe’s move to Fulham also shows that Arsenal haven’t exactly been amazing in who they’ve let go, because he’s done very well for Fulham.

Collymore emphasized Smith Rowe’s potential and impact, suggesting that keeping him would have bolstered the team’s strength and provided additional support for Ødegaard.

The 24-year-old made the move to Craven Cottage to join Fulham in the summer in a £34million deal. And he has shown his quality already, with three goals and two assists in 11 Premier League matches for the Cottager. Interestingly, Ødegaard, who plays in a similar position, has faced injury setbacks this season, which has affected the team’s performance and contributed to their nine-point gap behind Liverpool at the top of the Premier League.

Smith Rowe, a product of Arsenal’s Hale End academy, was highly regarded within the club. He made his first major impression at the Emirates Stadium under Unai Emery and was one of the standout players when Mikel Arteta took over in 2019. Unfortunately, injuries have hindered his progress, and as Arteta built a more competitive squad, Smith Rowe found opportunities limited, despite fan support for his inclusion.

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