Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard believes that Manchester United has many talented players who can rise to the occasion at any moment.
For a long time, Manchester United has been lackluster in football, even struggling to show their best at home. However, Ødegaard remains cautious because the team they’re facing is Manchester United, and the venue is Old Trafford. The Arsenal captain feels that it will be a tough challenge.
Historically, United is a formidable opponent, despite not being at their best for quite some time. This season, they have even struggled at home.
In their last seven league matches at Old Trafford, United has only won two, both against relegation-threatened Southampton and Ipswich Town.
Despite falling to 15th in the league, United has occasionally shown moments of brilliance. In January, they eliminated Arsenal in a penalty shootout in the FA Cup’s third round. Additionally, they won against local rivals Manchester City in a league match last December.
The FA Cup encounter’s memory has made Arsenal extra cautious ahead of their Premier League match against United on Sunday. Ødegaard told reporters the day before the match that United could be a tough challenge if they find their rhythm.
“When United’s team clicks, playing against them is challenging. They are not where they want to be in the table. They are a big club, but they’re struggling right now.”
Arsenal, sitting second in the league, defeated United 2-0 at home last December. They are 16 points behind league leaders Liverpool, having played two fewer matches. A win against United is crucial for narrowing the points gap with Liverpool.
Ødegaard emphasized that Arsenal is going to Old Trafford with the sole goal of winning.
“We know their quality. They have a lot of good players, so we must be prepared.”
“We are Arsenal, and we’re not afraid to go there (Old Trafford) with the aim of winning.”