Arsenal fans think it’s time for an ‘uncomfortable conversation’ about one player after watching his performance in PSG defeat

The Emirates Stadium was filled with high hopes and electric anticipation on Tuesday night as Arsenal faced Paris Saint-Germain in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final showdown. But just three minutes into the encounter, the atmosphere shifted dramatically.

PSG winger Ousmane Dembélé delivered a stunning early blow, cutting through Arsenal’s defense and finding the back of the net with clinical precision. The early goal not only shocked the home crowd into silence but also set the tone for what became a frustrating evening for Mikel Arteta’s side.

Despite a spirited effort from the Gunners, the hosts struggled to impose themselves on the match. Fabian Ruiz nearly doubled PSG’s lead when his long-range effort rattled the post, serving as a reminder of the visitors’ attacking threat.

Arsenal thought they had found a way back just after the restart. Midfielder Mikel Merino rose to head home what seemed to be the equalizer, only for the assistant referee to raise his flag for offside. The decision stood after a quick VAR check, deflating Arsenal’s momentary jubilation.

However, it wasn’t just the scoreboard that left Arsenal fans disappointed. Attention quickly turned to individual performances—and one name was on nearly every supporter’s lips: Martin Ødegaard.

The Norwegian playmaker, typically praised for his vision, leadership, and creativity, drew the ire of Arsenal fans on social media throughout the match. Many felt the club captain didn’t rise to the occasion, especially in a game of such magnitude.

One fan on X (formerly Twitter) didn’t hold back, posting: “I’m sorry but Martin Ødegaard is so frustrating. Mr Busy. It’s all for show… What does he actually do? For all his talent, I need more from him, especially in games like this.”

Another user echoed similar sentiments, criticizing Ødegaard’s influence on the pitch: “Just standing around, really poor again. For all his talent, he should be the one trying to open this up for Arsenal.”

The online criticism wasn’t entirely one-sided. Some supporters defended the 25-year-old, pointing out his pressing efforts and work rate off the ball. “Am I the only one who sees what he does off the ball?” wrote one fan. “He’s literally demanding the press. Say what you want about his G/A, but he’s the leader out there demanding more from his teammates.”

Still, others questioned whether his recent injury struggles had impacted his form. “He’s dropped off since his injury at the start of the season. Think he’s lost range of motion in his ankle/foot since surgery, which is why his shooting and passing is nowhere near where it used to be.”

One comment even took a humorous turn, stating: “He’d be class on a building site. He’s mastered looking busy while doing nothing.”

Former England striker Alan Shearer, who was on commentary duty for Prime Video, also weighed in on the discussion. Speaking candidly during the broadcast, Shearer remarked, “I’m disappointed with Ødegaard tonight. You expect more from your captain in games like these.”

It’s a sentiment that likely resonated with many viewers, especially considering the weight placed on Ødegaard’s shoulders as the creative engine of Arteta’s side. His ability to dictate the tempo and unlock defenses is often what separates Arsenal from their opponents in high-stakes matches.

But on this night, Ødegaard’s influence faded. His passes lacked incision, and his trademark composure under pressure seemed absent. As Arsenal searched for an equalizer, their captain’s quiet performance became more glaring.

Late in the match, Arteta opted to substitute Ødegaard, bringing on teenage sensation Ethan Nwaneri in a bid to inject fresh energy into the attack. It was a bold move—and perhaps a telling one about the manager’s assessment of his skipper’s performance.

With the return leg set for May 7 at the Parc des Princes, Arsenal have little time to dwell on the loss. However, the conversation around Ødegaard’s role and form is unlikely to fade quickly. As fans debate his impact, Arteta must decide whether to stick with his captain or consider adjustments ahead of what could be Arsenal’s biggest European match in decades.

One thing is certain—if Arsenal are to overturn the deficit in Paris and reach the Champions League final, they’ll need more than just effort and possession. They’ll need their biggest players to step up on the biggest stage.

And right now, many fans aren’t convinced Ødegaard is doing just that.