Ødegaard warns Arsenal to brace for physical battle ahead of Chelsea derby
Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard has urged his teammates to prepare for a tough fight in Sunday's London derby against Chelsea, with both clubs holding unbeaten records so far this season.
Two unbeaten sides collide
Arsenal and Chelsea meet at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday with perfect records intact so far in the Premier League season. As reported by Goal.com and Metro.co.uk, Arsenal have won both their opening fixtures against Coventry City and Aston Villa while keeping consecutive clean sheets, whereas Chelsea, despite an impressive attack, have already conceded five goals.
Ahead of the match, Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard said the team had spent the week studying Chelsea closely. "They've been really good going forward so far, playing some good attacking football. They have got some really good players and have made more signings this summer," he said, describing the fixture as a big test and "a good fight." According to Metro.co.uk, Chelsea have reportedly used rugby pads in training to prepare for the physical challenge of facing Arsenal.
Saka's form and squad culture
In his captain's column for Arsenal's matchday programme, Ødegaard also praised teammate Bukayo Saka, who has returned to strong form after injury problems last season, scoring against both Coventry and Aston Villa. The London Evening Standard notes that Saka is the only current Arsenal player who has experienced a defeat to Chelsea, dating back to August 2021, and mentions that former Arsenal forward Thierry Henry has said he expects Saka to reach 15 goals and 15 assists in a single Premier League season.
Ødegaard pointed to Arsenal's defensive solidity and team spirit as key strengths this season, while also reflecting on summer squad changes, including the departures of Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli and the debut of new signing Ezri Konsa. He praised the club's strong internal culture, which he said helps new players settle in quickly.
Context: new contracts at the club
Separately, according to TEAMtalk, Arsenal are working on several contract matters, including a new deal for manager Mikel Arteta, whose current contract expires at the end of this season. Talks are reportedly progressing well, with an agreement expected before the September international break, which begins on September 25. Arsenal are also said to be advancing new contract talks with Declan Rice, Martin Ødegaard and Jurrien Timber.
