They reset, tweaking the setup. The next shape leaned into a 4-3-3, pushing Izan and Saka into more direct wing roles while Ghanaian defensive midfielder Partey gave defensive assurance, giving Ødegaard complete control in midfield alongside Rice.
The ball moved effortlessly, Ødegaard dictating tempo while Izan roamed inside, collecting passes and turning with intent.
At one point, Izan dropped deep, dragging White with him before spinning away and darting into the gap he'd just created.
Ødegaard spotted it instantly, lifting a perfect ball over the top. Izan cushioned the pass off his chest before shifting it onto his left foot, but before he could shoot, Saliba's long stride ate up the space, poking the ball away.
Again, it was promising—smooth, well-structured, technically sound. But still, something was off.
Arteta blew his whistle, cutting through the rhythm. He ran a hand through his hair, scanning the setup. "Alright, change again."
