Mikel Arteta has praised Martin Odegaard as a ‘natural leader’ and says the midfielder is approaching close to his ‘best level’ at Arsenal, whilst the Gunners’ boss confirmed that Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang will again not be considered for this weekend’s clash with Leeds.
Aubameyang was removed as club captain last week following a disciplinary breach at Arsenal, with the forward omitted from the north London side’s squad for Premier League wins over Southampton and West Ham.
Arteta has confirmed that the Gabon international will again not be considered for the trip to Leeds, increasing the uncertainty surrounding the 32-year-old’s future at the Emirates.
“No he’s not available for selection,” Arteta insisted at his pre-match press conference.
Arteta also discussed the recent upturn in Martin Odegaard’s performances, with the midfielder having scored three goals in his past four Premier League appearances.
The Norway international endured a slow start to the season after turning his loan from Real Madrid into a permanent deal last summer, but Arteta believes the 22-year-old is getting close to his ‘best level’.
“He’s very young but he already has a lot of experience in different clubs and at international level. He’s getting very close to his best level and the ceiling for him, I don’t know where it is because of the talent he has and desire he has. We’ve got a tremendous player there.
“He’s a natural leader. If you look for the perfect professional he would not be very far from there.”
