Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard has said that leaving Real Madrid to join Arsenal was the greatest decision for him.
Two years ago, the Norwegian playmaker, who had already completed an initial loan stint at the Emirates, made the £30 million permanent move from Madrid to Arsenal.
14:00 - 15.10.2023
‘I nearly cried’ - Thierry Henry reveals why his goal against Leeds on his Arsenal return in 2012 was the best of his career
Despite all the wonder goals he scored during his successful career, Thierry Henry has ranked the FA Cup strike against Leeds in 2012 as the one that gives him the most joy
Odegaard received the Arsenal captain band in July of last year after establishing himself as a crucial member of Mikel Arteta's team and one of the league's top players.
The Norwegian sensation has now opened up on his move from Santiago Bernabeu to the Emirate stadium.
Odegaard on making the right move
Odegaard was sold by Real Madrid after making just 11 appearances and failed to score or provide an assist.
Odegaard said, as reported by Daily Mail, “My time at Madrid was good. It was a positive stage, although perhaps some might think otherwise.
19:57 - 14.10.2023
I will do anything for my family — Sheyi Adebayor defends notorious celebration against Arsenal
Former Arsenal striker Emmanuel Sheyi Adebayor has urged Gunners fans to forget about his notorious goal celebration in 2009.
17:02 - 14.10.2023
Fans criticise absence of black footballers in Arsenal Women's team
Arsenal posted their squad photo for the 2023/24 season, and the lack of diversity in the team raised eyebrows.
“I learned a lot, I matured a lot and I was able to train with some of the best players in the world. But in the end, leaving was the best decision for me, I wanted to play more and continue growing.
“I played with them and I enjoyed it. Maybe the opportunity came too soon but 'It was a great experience'.
“I'm happy with the decision I made and how it went. If I hadn't gone through Madrid I wouldn't have reached the level I have today.
During Odegaard's tenure at the club, Madrid's squad was loaded with superstars like Luka Modric, Toni Kroos, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Gareth Bale, therefore he was unable to make his way into the senior squad.
He continued, “Real Madrid is the biggest club in the world and the pressure is noticeable, even if it wasn't as much as Ronaldo, Beckham and company were there.”
Meanwhile, Odegaard's performances at Arsenal led to the signing of a new, five-year deal that will keep him with the team through the summer of 2028.