With all eyes on Martin Zubimendi following his high-profile arrival, Arsenal fans might be overlooking another key addition. Christian Nørgaard, signed quietly from Brentford, could end up being one of Mikel Arteta’s most effective tools during the 2025/26 season.
While Zubimendi is expected to control the tempo and raise Arsenal’s technical ceiling, Nørgaard brings a completely different dimension, one that could prove vital when matches get gritty or chaotic late on.
Why Nørgaard may become Arteta’s go-to midfield closer
Nørgaard’s defensive nous, physicality, and ability to read danger make him a perfect candidate to close out games. Arteta has often struggled to lock down leads in high-pressure moments, and adding a natural defensive midfielder with Premier League experience solves a recurring problem.
According to multiple analysts, including TheFalseNein, Arteta may turn to Nørgaard in physical away fixtures or when Arsenal need to protect narrow margins. His pressing angles, strength in duels, and calm passing under pressure offer exactly what Arsenal lacked in last season’s tight draws and late slip-ups.
Christian Norgaard – Arsenal Debut vs AC Milan!pic.twitter.com/R4rUMKZZDr
— AFC_Adi (@AFC_Adi06) July 23, 2025
Set-piece threat makes him more than a destroyer
What makes Nørgaard even more interesting is his ability to contribute going forward. Despite playing as a defensive midfielder, he registered 10 goal contributions last season, a mix of headers and second balls from dead-ball situations. For a team like Arsenal that relies heavily on set-piece routines under Nicolas Jover, that adds real tactical value.
It’s not just about stopping goals, Nørgaard might be helping score them too. His timing in the box and ability to create chaos on corners could surprise many who’ve only seen him as a holding presence.
Author Opinion
Zubimendi might be the one making headlines, but don’t be shocked if it’s Christian Nørgaard who wins over Arteta’s trust when it matters most. Every title-winning squad needs a player like him, someone who knows when to kill a game, protect a lead, or simply outmuscle the opposition. Arsenal didn’t sign him for depth alone. He’s here for purpose. And that purpose might become clear very soon.
