Martin Odegaard: Arsenal captain reveals main reason for Real Madrid exit

Odegaard has developed into one of the best midfielders in the Premier League since leaving the Blancos in January 2021.

Martin Odegaard admits he joined Arsenal to get more playing time away from Real Madrid’s crowded midfield line.

Odegaard joined Real Madrid’s academy from Norwegian side Strømsgodset in 2015. After successful loan moves to Heerenveen, Vitesse, and Real Sociedad, Odegaard was kept at the club for the 2020-21 season. However, the club agreed to send him on another loan move, this time to Arsenal, in January.

Odegaard’s quick development under Mikel Arteta convinced the Gunners to make his move permanent six months later. Since then, the Norway international has established his place as one of cornerstones of Arsenal’s squad, taking over the captain armband last year.

Asked by AS about his decision to leave Real Madrid, Odegaard responded: “My time in Madrid was good. It was a positive stage. I have learned to mature and it has been a great learning, but I needed to play more. I am happy with the decision and how it went.

“If I hadn’t gone through Madrid, I wouldn’t have reached the level I have today. Madrid is the largest club in the world and so is the pressure there.”

After the international break, Arsenal will restart their Premier League campaign with a London derby against Chelsea on October 21.