3 standout players from disappointing 3-0 defeat to Brighton

3. Martin Odegaard

One of Arsenal’s standout players of the season has been Martin Odegaard. Following eye-catching performances versus the likes of Chelsea and Newcastle, he had a tougher time against Brighton. Roberto De Zerbi had his defenders man-mark Arsenal attackers and Odegaard suffered as a result. He was not afforded much time and space by Levi Colwill, limiting his influence on proceedings.

Despite the opposition’s approach, he still found himself at the heart of much of Arsenal’s attacking play. Odegaard’s technical ability was on display, keeping possession with close control while also sliding in through balls to the likes of Saka and Gabriel Jesus. His desire to score was also seen as he shot from outside the box, but his effort dragged wide.

In the second half, he tried to take on responsibility. The Norwegian dropped to the edge of his own box to help progress play. Although he could not change the tide of the game, his work rate and fight can be commended.

Arsenal fell to Brighton, with the latter picking apart their chance at winning their first title in decades. With this defeat, however, attention will turn to improvements that can be made and players that should be signed. Regardless of how the season ends, Arsenal players can look to the summer with their heads held high after a season in which they punched well above their weight.