Martin Odegaard is a Norwegian professional footballer who currently plays as an attacking midfielder for Arsenal and the Norway national team. Born on December 17, 1998, in Drammen, Norway, Odegaard began his footballing journey at a young age, displaying exceptional talent and technical ability.
Odegaard started playing football at a young age, joining the local club Drammen Strong at just four years of age. He quickly progressed through the youth ranks, and by the age of eight, he joined the academy of Stromsgodset, a Norwegian professional football club.
Odegaard made his first-team debut for Stromsgodset at the age of 15, becoming the youngest player ever to play in Norway's top division.
Odegaard's performances in the Norwegian top division quickly caught the attention of European football's biggest clubs. In January 2015, at the age of 16, he signed for Real Madrid, one of the most prestigious football clubs in the world. Odegaard's signing was seen as a coup for Real Madrid, and he was expected to become one of the world's best players.
Despite his potential, Odegaard found it difficult to break into the Real Madrid first team. He was loaned out to various clubs to gain experience, including Heerenveen and Vitesse in the Netherlands, and Real Sociedad in Spain. It was during his loan spell at Real Sociedad that Odegaard really started to shine. He played a key role in helping the club qualify for the Europa League and was named the team's Player of the Season.
Odegaard is an attacking midfielder who is known for his technical ability and creative flair. He is comfortable on the ball, has excellent vision, and is a great passer. Odegaard is also a good dribbler and is capable of beating players with his quick feet. He is a versatile player who can play in a central or wide attacking midfield position.
Odegaard signed for Arsenal on loan from Real Madrid in January 2021, and he made an immediate impact at the London club. He quickly established himself as a key player in the Arsenal team, impressing fans and pundits with his performances. Odegaard scored his first Arsenal goal in a 3-1 win over Olympiacos in the Europa League, and he has continued to play a vital role in the team's midfield. So much so that the move was made permanent in August 2021.
Odegaard has represented the Norwegian national team since the age of 15, making him the youngest player ever to play for them. He has since become a regular, playing in crucial matches and helping the team qualify for major tournaments. Odegaard played a key role in Norway's Euro 2020 qualifying campaign, scoring two goals and providing four assists.
Odegaard has already achieved a lot in his young career. He has played for some of the biggest clubs in Europe and has impressed fans and pundits alike with his technical ability and creative flair. Odegaard's move to Arsenal has been a success so far, and he looks set to continue making a significant impact on the club's fortunes.
Here are 13 fun facts about Odegaard you need to know...!