Paul Merson has hailed Martin Ødegaard’s performances for Arsenal this season, describing the captain as “like a new signing” after his decisive contribution in the narrow win over Hull City on Saturday. According to Sky Sports on Sunday, November 8, 2026, the former Gunners midfielder believes the Norwegian has been central to the club’s strong start to the 2026/27 campaign.

Arsenal edged past newly promoted Hull 1-0 at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday, with Ødegaard scoring the only goal in the 72nd minute.

Declan Rice threatened on three occasions, while Noni Madueke also tested Hull goalkeeper Konstantinos Tzolakis several times. The visitors resisted those attempts until Madueke’s effort was pushed away by Tzolakis. Ødegaard reacted fastest to the rebound and converted from close range to settle the contest.

The result strengthened Arsenal’s position at the summit of the Premier League. They moved six points ahead of Manchester City after the defending champions were beaten 3-1 by Nottingham Forest, making the victory over Hull particularly valuable in the title race.

Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, Merson recognised the visitors’ defensive discipline but argued that Ødegaard’s quality was ultimately decisive in unlocking them.

“Hull defended very well and it took Martin Odegaard to break them down if I'm being honest,” he said.

Merson singled out the Arsenal captain as the most influential player on the pitch, pointing to his ability to circulate possession quickly and help create openings when the team struggled to find space.

“He’s been outstanding. He’s the only one really that moves it quickly,” the former England international added.

He also expressed admiration for Ødegaard’s contribution across the campaign, suggesting the midfielder has brought a renewed dimension to Arteta’s side.

“I think he’s been outstanding this season, he’s like a new signing for them and he’s been the man so far,” Merson said.

The goal against Hull took Ødegaard’s tally to five in all competitions this season. That represents a considerable improvement on his previous campaign, when he managed only one goal in 36 appearances. His increased output has given Arsenal another source of goals from midfield and reinforced his importance to the team.

Despite praising the captain, Merson acknowledged that Arsenal did not produce their most convincing performance against Hull. However, he emphasised that winning matches when a team is below its best is essential for any side hoping to challenge for the Premier League title. Arsenal’s ability to collect points in such encounters could prove significant as the season develops.

Arteta’s players now face a demanding run of fixtures. Their next assignment is a trip to St James’ Park to meet Newcastle United next weekend. They will then prepare for a Champions League encounter with Borussia Dortmund before returning to domestic action for a major Premier League meeting with Manchester City.

Ødegaard’s form offers Arteta an important creative presence ahead of those tests. If the captain maintains his influence and continues contributing goals, Arsenal will have a valuable advantage as they pursue the league title.