The expectations for Martin Ødegaard’s deliveries exceed most things. It is still quite strange when the Norwegian media uses the headline “butchers Ødegaard’s performance”, after one weaker game against Brighton – who played great. For Arsenal, criticism of their captain is just noise. Mikel Arteta and the management know perfectly well they have the best for the job. Now comes the reward.
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The BBC reports that there are only formalities left before Mikel Arteta and Arsenal can sit down and sign a new contract. Pep Guardiola’s former assistant showed last season that he smells of a Champions League title – and led the Gunners all the way to the Premier League title. Arteta’s signing will be the first phase in the project of long-term success and titles, now it is the second most important guy at Arsenal who gets the focus.
English Teamtalk has previously signed Arteta and a trio of players has priority this autumn. With the coach in place, it is time for the captain.
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We let Teamtalk draw a situation description:
“Ødegaard has established himself as one of the most important people in Arteta’s Arsenal squad since joining the club permanently from Real Madrid, and his status as captain makes his continued involvement particularly important. His future was never seen internally as a major concern, despite the speculation surrounding his situation. Arsenal are convinced that the player remained committed to the project.”
“With an agreement now in place for Arteta to extend his stay at the Emirates, we can confirm that Ødegaard is also on his way to a new deal, and talks between the midfielder’s camp and Arsenal are moving in a positive direction.”
“We exclusively revealed at the beginning of this year that Ødegaard remained fully committed to Arsenal despite a difficult season for the Norwegian international. The 26-year-old had fought his way back to full form after knee problems, and both his availability and form were affected during a frustrating period.”
“There have been reports suggesting that Ødegaard’s future could be uncertain, but we understand that was never the case, and sources make it clear that both the player and the club were more than happy with their respective situations. The strong relationship has helped pave the way for the latest contract negotiations to go smoothly.”
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“Ødegaard finished Arsenal’s title-winning season in excellent form and then carried this momentum into the World Cup with Norway, further reinforcing the belief that he remains a hugely important part of Mikel Arteta’s plans. The midfielder has also had an impressive start to the current season, and his performances have only cemented the prospect of him extending his stay at Arsenal.”
“Ødegaard’s current contract runs until 2028, but Arsenal are keen to reward their captain with improved terms and provide further security for his long-term future,” reports Teamtalk.
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