On fire! Two words that don’t even quite manage to capture what Martin Ødegaard delivers in the Arsenal shirt at the start of the season. Various English media claimed that Martin Ødegaard was a candidate to be “sacrificed” in the transfer market this summer. We have laughed at the whole situation, on Tuesday came another explanation as to why Arsenal reward their captain.
Mikel Arteta has always said how crucial, not just important, captain Ødegaard has been to Arsenal’s success last season, which was built on the job the Norwegian has done since he was appointed captain in July 2022. Now the captain will form the trio that ensures continuity and titles for Arsenal.
READ: Bodø/Glimt are among the 30 best football teams in the world
On Tuesday, Arsenal would get to test themselves against Napoli, where Kevin de Bruyne would help stop his former rival, something he had done season after season in a City shirt. This time, the Belgian could not stop the London club. A cannon shot from captain Ødegaard in the 75th minute decided it all to a 0-1 victory for Arsenal.
Scoring in the Community Shield final. Scoring in two Premier League games. Scoring in the Champions League. Not only does Ødegaard lead the Arsenal squad to victories, the finisher and match-winner Ødegaard is back!
Earlier this week, Teamtalk reported that Arsenal will: “commence 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. Arteta is determined to hold on to his main stars as the Gunners begin to defend the Premier League title they won last season, thus ending a 22-year wait. 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.”
Read on F7: FIFA confirms Infantino will run for re-election – despite scandals and growing opposition
Martin Ødegaard showed once again why he should and must be part of the foundation going forward for Arsenal. Fully deserved!
