Odegaard speaks of Arsenal ‘dream’; namechecks Gunners legends

Martin Odegaard, Mikel Arteta, Arsenal

Loan star Martin Odegaard admits Arsenal already feels like ‘home’ and named several Gunners legends as his footballing heroes.

Odegaard, 22, penned a six-month loan deal from Real Madrid in January. And he has made a smooth transition to the Premier League, scoring twice from 12 appearances in all competitions. The Norway international has impressed with his skills. And it seems as though Mikel Arteta would like to sign him on a permanent basis this summer.

The young Scandinavian also hinted that he is open to a lengthy stay in north London. However, Real chief Zinedine Zidane reportedly has a plan for Odegaard at the Bernabeu and he has been tipped to return.

Nevertheless, the forward’s latest words will give hope to the club’s fans that the young talent might agree to stay.

“I’m really happy. Everything is good here at the club,” he said in an interview with the Premier League. “I’ve felt at home since the first day, I get on really well with my team-mates and everyone at the club, and I feel really good.”

Odegaard has spent time on loan with Heerenveen, Vitesse and Real Sociedad during his time in Madrid. He has made just 11 appearances for Los Blancos, prompting speculation of a move away.

And the youngster certainly endeared himself to the Gunners faithful when scoring in a 2-1 victory over Tottenham.

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Odegaard making all the right noises

Odegaard has shown an incredible maturity as a player since arriving at Arsenal. And, at such a young age, he still has the best years of his career in front of him.

The man with 26 Norway caps appears to be living the dream in his present surroundings.

“The Premier League is really big in Norway, so I grew up watching the Premier League every week and everyone in Norway follows the league, so it’s a dream to be able to play here,” he added.

And it seems as though a few Arsenal greats have influenced his career.

Cesc.Fabregas.2021.TEAMtalk11

“I really liked Cesc Fabregas, and also Thierry Henry, Dennis Bergkamp, those kind of players,” he continued. “That Arsenal team was so good, so maybe those three I would say, and the style of Dennis Bergkamp playing in my position.”

Arsenal are seemingly out of contention for a top-four spot. But a late-season rally could see them qualify for the Europa League. They sit ninth in the table and face a tough test at home to Liverpool when domestic action resumes.

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