The Arsenal players have returned from the international break with no injuries reported, which is very great. Martin Odegaard was one of the players that featured for his country, scoring a goal in the 2-1 win over Georgia. It was a sweet goal, reminiscent of his goal against Manchester United this season, good stuff at the edge of the box.
It has been quite the year for Odegaard, smashing his personal records in terms of goals, and receiving awards that he deserved – Arsenal Player of the 2022/23 season, London Awards Player of the Year, a place in the 2022/23 Premier League Team of the Year and even a nomination for the shortlist of the Men’s Ballon D’Or, which is downright amazing.
I remember when he joined Arsenal on loan in the 2020/21 season in January, shortly after he agitated for a move from Real Madrid due to lack of game time. He scored two goals in 20 appearances for Arsenal that season, and many weren’t too convinced on him, despite the fact that he was a decent performer that campaign.
Moving permanently to Arsenal for £35m was a steal in my honest opinion but Odegaard continued to grow in stature in the 2021/22 season, and must have been gutted to miss out of Champions League qualification with his teammates.
With the departure of Alex Lacazette, Odegaard was appointed Arsenal captain by Mikel Arteta, which was a great show of faith from the gaffer, and you don’t need me to tell you what a monster campaign Odegaard had last season.
This season the captain has scored two goals in four Premier League games – the high pressure penalty at Selhurst Park against Crystal Palace and the all-important equalizer for Arsenal against Manchester United which pegged the visitors back and brought the wind to the Gunners. While on international duty with Norway, Odegaard was asked about his contract extension with the club. His current deal expires in 2025, but Arsenal has a clause to extend it by an additional year.
The captain stated that he doesn’t have much to say about the new contract but he’s very happy at the club and hopes to stay for a long time. It is believed that Arsenal’s extension will come with a significant pay increase and it will be no less than he deserves.
Odegaard clearly loves his time with us and he’s at the forefront of the exciting project at the club which is focused on winning trophies. So it’s only a matter of time before we get the news that he has confirmed the contract extension with the club.
Sayonara
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