Martin Odegaard hailed by Pep Guardiola as captain compared with Arsenal legend
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has heaped praise on Martin Odegaard, saying the Arsenal captain suits Gunners boss Mikel Arteta "perfectly".
Guardiola isn't the only one to hail the Norway international, with former Arsenal defender William Gallas comparing him to club legend Dennis Bergkamp. Gunners fans may be able to relax amid all the praise without fearing for their star man's future, though, after Odegaard signed a new long-term contract during the week.
The £30m Arsenal paid to make Odegaard's loan from Real Madrid permanent in 2021 is looking more like a bargain with every passing day. The 24-year-old took over the captaincy after Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's departure, and has helped the team reach new heights under Mikel Arteta.
His form prompted pundit Gary Neville to suggest Guardiola would take the midfielder at Manchester City "in a heartbeat". Guardiola was asked about Odegaard in his pre-match press conference ahead of City's match against Nottingham Forest, and the Catalan made his feelings clear.
"He settled really good and he became a captain because on and off the pitch as well," Guardiola said. "He shows consistency playing a lot of games.
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"He suits perfectly the idea for Mikel from Arsenal. He’s a really, really good player."
Can you see Martin Odegaard playing for Manchester City? Have your say in the comments section
Martin Odegaard has signed a new contract with Arsenal (Arsenal FC via Getty Images)Odegaard's new contract has been welcome news to plenty at Arsenal, including former captain Gallas. Speaking to Genting Casino, the Frenchman praised his pass in the lead-up to Leandro Trossard's winner at Everton, before showering him with further praise.
"He is such an important player for Arsenal," Gallas said. "If you take him out of the team, Arsenal are not the same.
"I think you can compare Odegaard to Dennis Bergkamp. He isn’t on Bergkamp’s level yet – Bergkamp was an unbelievable player for Arsenal – but Odegaard reminds me of him. Odegaard can make the difference with his quality."
Upon signing fresh terms, Odegaard explained his decision to commit his future to Arsenal. He captained the side to a second-place finish in the league last season, and will look to inspire his team-mates to a North London Derby victory this Sunday.
“Signing a new contract was a really easy decision for me for lots of reasons," he said. "Mainly what we are doing right now as a club is special, and I want to be a part of that.
"I’m really excited for what’s to come here. I’ve found a place where I can be really settled and call my home."
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