Arsenal's shirt number heritage is once again the focus of fans' attention, especially the future of the much-anticipated number 10 shirt. According to the latest reports, with Smith Rowe about to join Fulham, his current No.10 shirt will be vacant, which sets the stage for a number change within the Arsenal team.
The central figure, Ödgörn, has been wearing the No. 8 jersey since joining Arsenal on loan and officially transferring to the team's midfield core and captain. However, according to the Spanish media, Ödgöl was initially attracted to the No. 10 jersey, but at that time, due to the choice of Smith-Rowe, he had to settle for No. 8. Now, with the departure of Smith Rowe, the vacancy of the No. 10 jersey undoubtedly provides an opportunity for Eudesco to choose again.
At the same time, Arsenal are actively looking for a new midfielder who can fill the void left by the departure of Smith-Rowe. Real Sociedad's Merino has become a favorite, not only is he a Spanish international, but he also wears the No. 8 jersey at Real Sociedad, showing the strength of an all-round midfielder. Therefore, if Merino joins Arsenal, he could become the new owner of the No. 8 shirt, while Odego has a chance to take over the No. 10 shirt that symbolizes the core.
However, the change is not a done deal. Odego may also choose to keep the No. 8 shirt he wore as Arsenal captain, leaving new signing Merino to choose another number. In addition, Arsenal youth team youngster Nwaneri, despite his potential, is relatively unlikely to take over the number 10 shirt as he is yet to get his first start in the Premier League. However, that doesn't preclude him from earning the honor at some point in the future through his own efforts.
