Martin Odegaard: Arsenal’s Best Midfielder and Superstar

Martin Odegaard is one the most influential midfielders in the Premier League along the likes of Kevin De Bruyne, Bruno Fernandes and Bernando Silva.

As a main cog in Arsenal’s machine, his performance will be vital to the successes of the club. Join us as we delve into the life of Arsenal and Nowray’s Captain and superstar, Martin Odegaard.

Player Profile – Martin Odegaard

Martin Ødegaard is a Norwegian attacking midfielder, known for his exceptional vision, technique, and passing range. Born in Drammen on December 17, 1998, he began his career at Strømsgodset before making a high-profile move to Real Madrid in 2015.

Ødegaard has since become a key figure at Arsenal, where his leadership and creativity have earned him the club captaincy. A dynamic playmaker, he excels in dictating tempo, creating chances, and contributing to both goals and assists.

As captain of Norway, Ødegaard continues to shine internationally, solidifying his reputation as one of the brightest midfield talents in Europe.

Player Profile Overview

Martin Odegaard‘s Early Life and Background

Odegaard was born on December 17, 1998, in Drammen, Norway, he grew up immersed in football. His father, Hans Erik Ødegaard, was a professional footballer, and young Martin inherited his love for the game. He joined local club Drammen Strong at the age of six, where his talent quickly became evident.

Guided by his father, who emphasized technical skills and ball control, Ødegaard developed a playing style that set him apart. By 13, he was training with the senior team of Strømsgodset, the club where his father played.

Despite his youth, his composure, intelligence, and flair stood out, earning him a place in the Norwegian footballing spotlight.

Martin Odegaard‘s Playing Style and Strength

Ødegaard’s football journey began in his hometown of Drammen, Norway, where he joined the youth ranks of Drøbak-Frogn. Soon after, his exceptional abilities caught the attention of Strømsgodset, a top-tier Norwegian club.

At just 15 years old, Ødegaard made his professional debut in 2014, becoming the youngest player to appear in the Eliteserien, Norway’s top league.

His debut season was a revelation. Ødegaard’s silky dribbling, pinpoint passes, and mature decision-making helped Strømsgodset finish fourth in the league.

Sharing the pitch with seasoned professionals, Ødegaard shone, becoming the youngest goal-scorer in Eliteserien history. It was evident that his talent far surpassed his years.

Signing for Real Madrid: The Prodigy’s Big Move

In January 2015, Real Madrid secured Ødegaard’s signature for €4 million, beating fierce competition from clubs across Europe. This move made him the youngest player to sign with the Spanish giants. Ødegaard initially joined Real Madrid Castilla, the club’s reserve team, under the tutelage of Zinedine Zidane.

While playing for Castilla, Ødegaard’s skills were on full display. He linked up with future stars like Marcos Llorente and Lucas Vázquez, mastering his craft in the competitive Segunda División B.

His standout moment came when he debuted for Real Madrid’s first team at 16, becoming the club’s youngest-ever debutant in May 2015 during a La Liga clash against Getafe.

Loan Spells: Mastering His Craft Across Europe

To gain consistent playing time, Ødegaard joined SC Heerenveen in the Eredivisie on an 18-month loan. He immediately adapted to Dutch football, contributing with goals and assists while improving his physicality.

His partnership with Denzel Dumfries, now a Netherlands international, offered glimpses of his ability to elevate those around him.

In the 2018–19 season, Ødegaard moved to Vitesse, where he truly flourished. Playing alongside Bryan Linssen, he scored 11 goals and provided 12 assists in all competitions, earning a spot in the Eredivisie Team of the Year. His performances established him as one of Europe’s brightest talents.

Return Back To Spain

Ødegaard’s next destination was Real Sociedad in La Liga, where he delivered a breakout season. Forming a dynamic partnership with players like Mikel Oyarzabal and Alexander Isak, he helped Sociedad reach the Copa del Rey final and secure European qualification.

He also scored a memorable goal against his parent club, Real Madrid, in a stunning Copa del Rey victory. That season, Ødegaard ranked among the top creators in La Liga, solidifying his reputation as a playmaking maestro.

Moving To England

In January 2021, Ødegaard joined Arsenal on loan, seeking consistent first-team football. He quickly made an impact under Mikel Arteta, scoring crucial goals, including a stunner in the Europa League against Olympiacos. His composure and vision earned him the Arsenal Player of the Month award in March 2021.

Joining Arsenal on a Permanent Transfer and Leadership

Arsenal secured Ødegaard on a permanent deal in August 2021 for €35 million. The Norwegian adapted seamlessly, becoming a vital cog in Arsenal’s midfield. Memorable moments included a stunning free-kick against Burnley and a brace against Bournemouth in the 2022–23 season.

In July 2022, Ødegaard was named Arsenal’s captain, showcasing his leadership both on and off the pitch. Partnering with stars like Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, and Granit Xhaka, he spearheaded Arsenal’s resurgence.

Manager Mikel Arteta’s decision to hand him the armband underscored his faith in Ødegaard’s leadership qualities and footballing intelligence.

The Norwegian repaid this trust with outstanding displays that firmly established him as one of the Premier League’s best midfielders.

Early Dominance and Notable Performances

Arsenal began their campaign strongly, with Ødegaard leading from the front. In August 2022, he scored twice in an away victory over Bournemouth, showcasing his eye for goal and ability to dictate play.

His knack for producing in critical moments became a recurring theme throughout the season. By November, Martin Ødegaard had firmly cemented his place as Arsenal’s creative hub.

In their final Premier League match before the World Cup break, he scored a brace against Wolves, ensuring Arsenal entered the break atop the league table, five points clear.

Post-World Cup Momentum

Returning from the World Cup break, Martin Ødegaard hit the ground running. On Boxing Day, he delivered two assists in a 3–1 win over West Ham, once again demonstrating his vision and ability to control the tempo of a match.

His performances earned him the Premier League Player of the Month award for November/December 2022, making him the first Arsenal player to win the accolade since 2019.

One of the standout moments of the season came in January 2023. Ødegaard scored a stunning strike in a 2–0 away win over Tottenham Hotspur in the North London Derby.

This was Arsenal’s first away league victory against their fierce rivals since 2014, and Ødegaard’s composure and leadership shone through.

He continued to deliver in pivotal matches, including a brace in a 3–1 win against Chelsea in May 2023. These performances underlined his knack for stepping up in high-stakes games.

Statistical Brilliance

By the season’s conclusion, Ødegaard had not only guided Arsenal to a second-place finish but also achieved remarkable personal milestones.

He scored 15 goals and 7 assists in the Premier League and created the Most chances created from open play (84) in the Premier League. He performances got his recognition as he was named in the PFA Team of the Year.

Ødegaard was deservedly crowned Arsenal’s Player of the Season, a reflection of his consistency and influence. He was also nominated for the Premier League Player of the Season and Young Player of the Season, further cementing his reputation as one of the league’s elite performers.

Maintaining Excellence in the 2023-24

The 2023–24 season began with Ødegaard continuing his scintillating form. Arsenal’s return to the Champions League after six years saw Ødegaard score his first goal in the competition during a dominant 4–0 win over PSV Eindhoven in September 2023. This milestone highlighted his growing influence on the European stage.

In the Premier League, Ødegaard delivered clutch performances, including scoring the decisive penalty in a 1–0 win over Crystal Palace in Arsenal’s first away match of the season. His ability to remain calm under pressure has made him invaluable to Arteta’s plans.

On February 11, 2024, Ødegaard delivered a masterclass in a 6–0 win against West Ham. He completed over 100 passes, created seven chances, and provided two assists, becoming the first Premier League player since 2003–04 to achieve such a feat in a single match.

His contributions extended to Arsenal’s European campaign, where he played a crucial role in their Champions League quarterfinal qualification, assisting the equalizer in a dramatic penalty shootout victory over Porto.

Although Arsenal fell short in their Champions League campaign and lost the premier league to Man City, Odegaard was one of the best perfromers of the season. He also won the Arsenal’s Player of the Year for the second time.

Notable Teammates at Club Level

Throughout his career, Ødegaard has shared the field with some of football’s elite. The list includes the legendary Cristiano Ronaldo and Luka Modric during his time at Real Madrid.

At Arsenal, he is part of a core team of players in the resurgent Arsenal side that includes Bukayo Saka, William Saliba, Kai Havertz and Gabriel Martinelli.

Martin Ødegaard’s International Career: A Tale of Youthful Brilliance and Leadership

Martin Ødegaard’s international career began when he represented Norway’s under-15 team at just 14 years old. In September 2013, he featured in two matches against Sweden, both of which Norway won. These early performances showcased his natural ability to control the game and his knack for contributing to winning moments.

In January 2014, he advanced to the under-16 team, competing in a tournament in Turkey against Scotland, the United States, and France. Despite mixed results, Ødegaard’s technical skill and composure stood out, earning him a promotion to the under-17 squad by February 2014.

For the under-17s, he played key matches against Iceland, Turkey, and Greece, quickly becoming a pivotal figure. Notably, in March 2014, Ødegaard’s vision and control helped Norway secure a 2–1 victory against Iceland.

By September of the same year, he was already playing for Norway’s under-21 team, where he dazzled despite facing tough competition, including a memorable outing against Portugal in the UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualifiers.

Senior Team Debut: Shattering Records

Ødegaard’s transition to senior football was nothing short of historic. On August 27, 2014, at just 15 years and 253 days old, he debuted for Norway in a friendly against the United Arab Emirates.

This made him the youngest-ever player to represent Norway at the senior level, breaking a record that had stood since 1910.

The milestones didn’t stop there. In October 2014, Ødegaard became the youngest player to feature in a UEFA European Championship qualifier, coming on as a substitute against Bulgaria at 15 years and 300 days. His ability to remain composed on such a grand stage hinted at his immense potential.

Breaking More Records and Key Contributions

March 2015 saw Martin Ødegaard set another record, becoming the youngest player to start a European Championship qualifier.

Norway faced Croatia in that match, and while the team suffered a 5–1 loss, Ødegaard’s poise and decision-making drew widespread praise.

In June 2019, Ødegaard scored his first senior international goal during a UEFA Euro 2020 qualifier against Romania. His effort contributed to a thrilling 2–2 draw, cementing his role as one of Norway’s most influential players.

Becoming National Team Captain

In March 2021, Ødegaard was appointed captain of Norway’s national team by manager Ståle Solbakken. At just 22 years old, he became one of the youngest players to wear the armband for Norway. The decision was a reflection of Ødegaard’s maturity, footballing intelligence, and influence on and off the pitch.

Under his leadership, Norway has seen improved performances in international competitions. While the team has yet to qualify for a major tournament during his tenure, Ødegaard’s vision and ability to inspire teammates have been instrumental in raising Norway’s competitive level.

Notable Teammates and Partnerships

Throughout his international career, Ødegaard has played alongside several notable Norwegian talents. Among them is Erling Haaland, a prolific striker and a close friend of Ødegaard.

Their chemistry on the field has provided Norway with a formidable attacking duo, capable of troubling even the best defenses in the world.

Other key teammates include Joshua King, a seasoned forward known for his Premier League experience, and Sander Berge, a dynamic midfielder with a strong presence in central areas.

Idols and Influence in Football

Martin Ødegaard, growing up, idolized footballing legends such as Lionel Messi, Mesut Özil, and Cesc Fàbregas. His admiration for these players is reflected in his style of play—creative, precise, and full of vision.

Ødegaard’s ability to control the tempo of a game, pick out key passes, and dictate play is reminiscent of these influential midfielders.

Comparison to Other Players

Martin Ødegaard’s playing style draws comparisons to several footballing greats. His vision and creativity resemble Mesut Özil, while his ability to dictate the tempo and make incisive passes aligns with Cesc Fàbregas.

Ødegaard’s dribbling and technical skills are also reminiscent of David Silva, excelling in tight spaces and quick decision-making.

His tactical intelligence and ball control evoke the qualities of Xavi Hernández, especially in orchestrating play from midfield. A blend of these legends, Ødegaard is a modern playmaker with exceptional vision and a unique ability to influence matches.

Personal Life of Martin Odegaard

Martin was heavily influenced by his father’s experience in the game, which helped shape his footballing career from a young age. He was also a fan of Lionel Messi, who inspired him with his technical brilliance.

Ødegaard has always maintained a humble and grounded attitude, with his media training often praised for its maturity.

Known for his intelligence and discipline, he speaks several languages, including Norwegian, English, Spanish, and some Dutch.

In his personal life, Ødegaard is in a relationship with Norwegian dancer Helene Spilling, and the couple announced in August 2024 that they were expecting their first child.

In November 2024, they were married. Ødegaard is a devout Christian, and his faith plays an important role in his life.

Conclusion

Martin Ødegaard’s journey from a teenage prodigy to Arsenal’s captain has been marked by dedication, growth, and resilience.

His skill, vision, and leadership on the pitch have earned him widespread recognition, while his humble, grounded personality off the field continues to inspire. Ødegaard’s future looks bright as he continues to shape the world of football.