Arsenal: Emi Buendia & Odegaard statistical and tactical comparison

Arsenal want another No. 10. Or a playmaker. Or a versatile wide player. Or…what exactly? What we do know is that Mikel Arteta wants to bring Martin Odegaard back to north London, as well as Emi Buendia. Or is it just one of them? Hmmm.

The two main names on supporters lips this summer are the two listed. There is no doubting that defensive reinforcements are urgently needed in both full-back departments but as important as they are, they don’t quite have the same toe-tingling allure of those further up the pitch.

That isn’t to say that if a Noussair Mazraoui walked through the Emirates doors, or an Andre Onana, there wouldn’t be reason for excitement, mind you.

But Arteta knows he needs another forward option who can complement Emile Smith Rowe, the only current player in the squad who is a natural No. 10.

https://twitter.com/ChrisWheatley_/status/1400540521362296835

Arsenal: Emi Buendia & Martin Odegaard statistical and tactical comparison and understanding what Arteta wants from summer transfer window

Odegaard joined in January and had a mixed six months. When on-song he was majestic. Games like Tottenham at home and West Ham away were typically endearing performances, those where he had the game by the scruff of the neck and ran it in technically delightful fashion.

Other times it wasn’t as pleasing on the eye. Someone who thrives in teams who dominate possession, he was guilty of going missing on occasion even if there were times where injury and fitness played their part.

Now back at Real Madrid, the desire for a reunion is strong.

"“We have a very clear and strong opinion on what we’d like to do,” the manager said. “Hopefully, we have given him the hope and the feeling that this could be a good place for him here.”"

Any move is, of course, not in the Gunners’ hands. Carlo Ancelotti has returned as manager with his own ideas, those that currently suggest a future in Spain for Odegaard. Arsenal will continue to press on nevertheless and if the opportunity arises, one that is financially viable, they will move.

But does the pursuit of Emi Buendia put a stop to that? Arsenal have lodged their opening bid of £30m+ for the Argentine, and while rejected, are expected to return with an improved figure.

The question is, if it is one or the other, why is it two very different players in mind? Both are playmakers, sure, but in terms of profile there are very few similarities.

So, what is the plan?

Continued…