Odegaard will want to prove something against Real Madrid

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·04 de abril de 2025

Odegaard will want to prove something against Real Madrid

Martin Odegaard’s connection with Real Madrid adds an intriguing layer of personal narrative to Arsenal’s upcoming UEFA Champions League clash with the Spanish giants. The Norwegian playmaker spent six years at the Santiago Bernabéu earlier in his career, a period marked by high expectations but limited opportunities.

Touted as one of the brightest talents of his generation, Odegaard attracted interest from several top clubs as a teenager. Real Madrid ultimately won the race for his signature, reportedly offering a more lucrative financial package to secure his services. However, despite the early promise, Odegaard struggled to find stability at the club. He was given few chances to properly develop, often being sent out on loan and never truly cementing a place in the first team.

Vídeos OneFootball

His fortunes changed significantly following his move to Arsenal. At the Emirates, Odegaard found the environment and support necessary to thrive. He has since become a pivotal figure for the Gunners and was eventually named club captain, a role he has embraced with maturity and consistency. Now one of the first names on Mikel Arteta’s team sheet, he is determined to lead Arsenal to success in Europe, with a Champions League title firmly in his sights.

(Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Standing in their path is his former club, Real Madrid—a side synonymous with success in the competition. Arsenal must overcome Los Blancos to book their place in the semi-finals, and for Odegaard, the encounter carries additional weight.

Former Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit has offered his thoughts ahead of the fixture, suggesting that Odegaard will be particularly motivated. As cited by Goal.com, Petit remarked:

“He needs players around him that can play combination football, one touch, pass and move, and Arsenal haven’t had those players fit for a long time. In his last game for Norway, he got a hat-trick of assists. He looks like he’s starting to get the juice back, and it’s coming at the right time. He will have been disappointed with how his Real Madrid career came to an end – he will have something to prove to Carlo Ancelotti, the manager that signed him and then sold him. He’s the captain of Arsenal – he’ll want to lead by example, and over the last few weeks he’s been looking a bit more like himself.”

While Odegaard’s personal motivation may be high, Arsenal will need a complete team performance to overcome the most decorated club in Champions League history. Their captain’s leadership will be vital, but collective excellence is essential if they are to progress.

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