Patrick Vieira has expressed that Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard “plays it too safe” after Manchester United surprised the Premier League leaders on Saturday.
Michael Carrick’s team came back to defeat Arsenal 3-2 at the Emirates Stadium, with goals from Bryan Mbeumo, Patrick Mbeumo, and Matheus Cunha.
This loss has impacted Arsenal’s title chances, narrowing their lead to four points with 15 games remaining.
Vieira criticized several key players and encouraged them to focus on their basics.
“They need to return to the fundamentals,” he said on Sky Sports. “They should play with freedom and go on the attack. Too many players underperformed today.
“This was a must-win match. They needed to show they are contenders in the league.
“I felt (Bukayo) Saka was too subdued. He is arguably the best attacking player.
“In big matches, you expect him to score and drive the team forward. (Leandro) Trossard is important, but he didn’t deliver.
“(Gabriel) Jesus worked hard, but we need him to be in the box more often.
“In midfield, the only standout was Declan Rice. Many players did not reach their potential.”
Patrick Vieira points out important issue with Martin Odegaard
Vieira specifically highlighted Odegaard, suggesting he is too cautious in his approach.
“Odegaard is among the technical leaders of the team due to his vision and passing ability. I want to see him position himself higher, between the lines.
“Sometimes he comes too close to the back four, which is not ideal.
“Players like him should be nearer to the goal.”
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