Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard recently shed light on his decision to leave Real Madrid and join Arsenal in 2021. The Norwegian midfielder, who initially joined Arsenal on loan from Real Madrid in January 2021 before making the move permanent, expressed his feelings about the transition. Odegaard mentioned that departing Los Blancos for the Gunners turned out to be the best decision for him, reflecting on his time with the Spanish powerhouse. He acknowledged the positive aspects of his stint with Real Madrid, emphasizing the learning and growth he experienced by training with some of the world’s best players.
While at Madrid, Odegaard appreciated the exposure to high-level football and the opportunity to mature as a player. Despite enjoying his time there, he felt the need to play more regularly and continue his development, which influenced his decision to leave. Odegaard expressed contentment with the choice he made and highlighted how the experience at Real Madrid contributed to his current level of play. He acknowledged the immense pressure associated with being at a club of Real Madrid’s stature, even though it was not as prominent during his time due to the presence of renowned players like Ronaldo and Beckham.
The move to Arsenal has proved to be beneficial for both Odegaard and the club. Odegaard has established himself as one of the premier midfielders in the English Premier League, contributing to Arsenal’s rise as a competitive force in English football. In a significant development, he was appointed as the captain of Arsenal ahead of the 2022/23 season and signed a new five-year contract, underlining his commitment to the club.
Looking ahead, Norway, led by Odegaard, is set to face European powerhouse Spain in a Euro 24 qualifying game in Oslo, showcasing the midfielder’s continued influence on the international stage. Odegaard’s journey from Real Madrid to Arsenal exemplifies his determination to play a key role and further his growth in the world of football.
