Odegaard reveals the special way that Arteta convinced him to join Arsenal

Martin Odegaard’s arrival at Arsenal sent shockwaves across the footballing world. A former wonderkid, it had been widely speculated that the 24-year-old Norwegian would be joining one of Europe’s biggest clubs.

However, against all odds, the transfer was completed and a talented young player signed for Arsenal. Since then he has gone on to become an integral figure in Mikel Arteta’s Gunners squad.

That he made this unexpected move was largely down to how impactful his Zoom call with manager Arteta was. Odegaard opened up about his experience of that call in writing for The Players’ Tribune:
“I spoke to him Arteta on a Zoom call and he told me all about the project,” revealed Odegaard. “At the time, Arsenal were not doing well. They were way down like 15th in the table.”

It wasn’t just responses to their current form that had Odegaard interested – it was Arteta himself; “Honestly, I challenge anyone to come away from a meeting with Arteta and not believe everything he tells you”. Clearly his passion impressed Odegaard: “He is next level,” recalled the midfielder.

LONDON, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 30: Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Nottingham Forest at Emirates Stadium on October 30, 2022 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Charlotte Wilson/Offside/Offside via Getty Images)

Arteta went beyond merely inspiring – he had concrete plans as well; “He told me his plan, everything he was building towards” said Odegaard. “He knew exactly what needed to change at the club.” Arteta certainly appeared confident – exhibiting an eagerness to get things done – and it rubbed off: “I got this strong feeling that he was onto something really special.”

Odegaard’s faith in his new coach’s vision proved worthy. With 8 goals scored and 5 assists provided by Martin Odegaard in just this season so far, one can say that the Norwegian international coming to the Emirates Stadium has been beneficial for both him and Mikel Arteta.

Arsenal have achieved relative success under Arteta so far – dominating sides such as Manchester City and Manchester United among others for the Premier League trophy hence giving themselves a chance to win it for the first time since 2004. It looks like Martin Odegaard has made a good decision joining Arsenal after all because of Mikel Arteta!