Ray Parlour Predicts Mikel Arteta Will Bench ‘Different Class’ Arsenal Star Against Chelsea

Ray Parlour claims Mikel Arteta could bench Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard against Chelsea as midfield competition reshapes the title race.

Ray Parlour predicts that Mikel Arteta will make one of his boldest calls of the season by choosing to bench Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard for the crucial Premier League clash against Chelsea. The former Gunners midfielder argues that form, fitness, and momentum inside the squad make the scenario realistic.

Speaking to Metro ahead of the London derby, Ray Parlour described Ødegaard as a “different class” player but suggested current dynamics point towards a tactical omission rather than automatic selection.

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Injuries have disrupted Ødegaard’s rhythm this season, and his influence has dipped after missing key fixtures. He was also benched in the recent north London derby win over Tottenham Hotspur, a decision that signalled a possible shift in Arteta’s midfield hierarchy.

That derby opened the door for Eberechi Eze, who delivered a standout performance and underlined why Arteta invested heavily in him. His impact has reshaped Arsenal’s attacking structure and forced a rethink in midfield balance.

Parlour highlighted Eze’s attitude and mentality during difficult spells, pointing to his training performances and professionalism as key factors in earning trust back.

Momentum now matters. In title races, managers rarely change winning formulas — and Eze’s form has created genuine competition rather than rotation.

Midfield Core Already Set

The double pivot of Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi appears locked in, which means the creative role becomes the main decision point.

That puts Ødegaard directly in competition with Eze, and Parlour believes current form favours continuity rather than reputation.

Chelsea’s midfield, led by Cole Palmer, Moisés Caicedo and Enzo Fernández, presents a different tactical challenge. Control, athleticism, and transition speed will be key, making Arteta’s midfield selection decisive.

With the Premier League title race tightening and rivals circling, Arsenal cannot afford hesitation in selection calls.

Ødegaard remains one of Arsenal’s most technically gifted players, especially in tight spaces. However, footballing reality often overrides sentiment.

Parlour’s view is clear: Arteta may keep the captain as a game-changing option from the bench rather than a guaranteed starter.

ArsenalTalks Verdict

This is no longer about status — it’s about system, balance, and form. Arteta’s evolution as a manager has shown he prioritises structure over reputation, even with senior figures.

If Ødegaard starts, it will be on merit.
If he doesn’t, it will be a statement of Arsenal’s new competitive standards.

Either way, the decision defines where this Arsenal team truly is.

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