Various English media claimed Martin Ødegaard was a candidate to be “sacrificed” in the transfer market this summer. We have laughed at the whole situation, Mikel Arteta has told us all along how crucial, not just important, captain Ødegaard has been to the success of Arsenal last season, which was built on the job the Norwegian has done since he was appointed captain in July 2022. Three Premier League games into the new season, Ødegaard’s criticism from last season has completely quieted down. Now the captain will form the trio that ensures continuity and titles for Arsenal.
We saw it in the Community Shield with the overrun of Manchester City. Further in the Premier League against Coventry, Aston Villa and Sunday with a match-winning goal against city rival Chelsea. According to Teamtalk , the Norwegian captain is part of a trio that will give Arsenal success, season after season.
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We let the English Teamtalk give a situation description:
“Ødegaard is the creative heart of Arteta’s attack. Teamtalk ‘understands’ that Arsenal are set to initiate contract renewal talks with Declan Rice, Martin Ødegaard and Jurrien Timber in an effort to protect the core of Mikel Arteta’s title-winning team.”
“The trio’s existing contracts expire in the summer of 2028, but all three are said to be keen to stay at the Emirates Stadium for the longer term. Arteta is determined to hold on to his main stars as the Gunners begin to defend the Premier League title they won last season, ending a 22-year wait.”
“There is no panic at the club. Officially, the players believe they are established and committed to the project. However, they want new terms to be agreed before Europe’s biggest clubs can make a concerted effort to lure them away.”
“Arsenal’s recent approach has been to reward key players quickly, rather than allowing speculation to build up as they enter the final two years of their contracts.
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“With Arsenal aiming for both national dominance and a first Champions League title, securing the future of these three is seen as important to maintain the standards that produced last season’s success. The early signs are positive. There is growing confidence that deals can be reached without drama, allowing Arteta to focus on the pitch rather than contract uncertainty”.
Six months ago, various “experts” called for the sale of Martin Ødegaard. Now the position as a building block for Arsenal’s further success will be confirmed with a new contract. We love it!
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