Supporters quickly noticed Bukayo Saka’s reaction during Arsenal’s defeat to Bournemouth when captain Martin Odegaard had the ball.
Following their 1-0 home loss to Paris Saint-Germain in the first leg of the Champions League semi-final, Arsenal aimed to recover in their Premier League match against Bournemouth.
Despite taking the lead with a goal from Declan Rice, second-half strikes by Dean Huijsen and Evanilson saw Bournemouth secure a season double over the Gunners.
Although Liverpool clinched the Premier League title last week, Arsenal have yet to secure second place and now face pressure from Manchester City and Newcastle. They also sit just seven points ahead of sixth-place Nottingham Forest, who have a game in hand.
Several Arsenal players faced criticism for letting the lead slip again, with Odegaard coming under fire for a lackluster and uninspired performance.
A notable moment from the second half drew attention online—when Saka passed to Odegaard near the edge of the box, and instead of taking a shot, Odegaard hesitated and drifted aimlessly. Anticipating a loss of possession, Saka immediately began tracking back to defend.
Fans reacted strongly on X (formerly Twitter), with one noting: “Saka knew he had to defend before Odegaard even tried to shoot.” Another added: “Saka started running back to defend as soon as Odegaard began dribbling—painful to watch.” Others expressed frustration, pointing out Odegaard’s reluctance to shoot in situations he previously would have.
Following the third straight home game without a win, Odegaard spoke to Sky Sports, expressing his disappointment in Arsenal’s performance. He described the second half as “chaotic and sloppy” and said it simply wasn’t good enough.
“We began well, got the goal, and seemed in control,” Odegaard explained. “But once they scored, we lost our rhythm. It became messy and we never recovered. That kind of second half performance isn’t acceptable.”
Looking ahead, Arsenal must quickly regroup for the Champions League semi-final second leg in Paris on Wednesday, followed by a match against league champions Liverpool on May 11.