Christian Norgaard’s impending move to Arsenal for a fee that could reach £15m has triggered intense comparison with both current and former midfield options. While many fans remain skeptical, a detailed breakdown reveals how the Dane measures up against Thomas Partey, Martin Zubimendi, Lucien Agoume, and Jorginho.
In terms of passing and possession, Norgaard trails behind Partey and Zubimendi. The Brentford midfielder completed 1,164 out of 1,427 attempted passes, giving him an 81.6% success rate — lower than Partey’s 87.4% and Jorginho’s 86.7%. Progressive play is another area where he falls short; his 154 progressive passes and just 14 progressive carries were dwarfed by Zubimendi’s 195 and 38, respectively.
Despite these numbers, Norgaard shines in key defensive areas. He recorded the most interceptions, blocks, and recoveries among the group, while also winning 62% of his aerial duels. His tackling record includes 49 successful tackles from 79 attempts. Though his 59.3% dribbler-tackling rate is the lowest of the group, he still proved more combative than the more possession-oriented Jorginho.
Interestingly, the former Fiorentina man also showed a surprising eye for goal. His five Premier League goals were the most among the five midfielders compared, and he added four assists — both top marks for the group. He also outperformed his expected assists, suggesting a level of opportunism and awareness his new Arsenal teammates could benefit from.
Agoume may have fewer minutes in the Premier League spotlight, but he leads in shot-creating actions per 90 minutes and in take-on success, making him an intriguing what-if option Arsenal reportedly considered. His 27 key passes outshine everyone else, showing more attacking versatility than he’s often credited for.
Partey, meanwhile, leads comfortably in possession metrics. With 1,920 passes attempted and 1,678 completed, he’s Arsenal’s possession metronome. Zubimendi, set to play the Partey role under Arteta, also boasts impressive numbers with 172 passes into the final third and a steady defensive contribution.
On the discipline front, Norgaard picked up more bookings — eight yellows and a red — indicating his combative nature may need some tempering in Arteta’s setup. However, he also drew 28 fouls, showing he knows how to earn relief in midfield tussles.
Arsenal are expected to use Zubimendi in a more prominent role, with Norgaard as a reliable backup — a “new Jorginho” of sorts. While questions remain over how well Norgaard will fit into Arsenal’s possession-based system, his grit, experience, and ability to contribute both defensively and in the final third suggest he could be a valuable squad asset as games wear on.
The shift from Brentford’s counter-attacking structure to Arsenal’s ball-dominant style will test his adaptability. But if utilized strategically, Norgaard’s strengths might shine in late-game scenarios when control and composure are critical.