Martin Odegaard: How the Arsenal captain led by example

Mikel Arteta's decision to appoint Martin Odegaard as Arsenal captain in July 2022 was met with skepticism at the time, but it has proven to be a stroke of genius.

The 25-year-old has led by example on and off the field and could become the first Gunners captain to win a Premier League title since Patrick Vieira in 2004.

Since joining the Emirates Stadium from Real Madrid in January 2021, initially on loan, Odegaard has made a huge impact in north London.

BBC Sport looks at how Odegaard's influence, who is also captain of his native Norway, has continued to grow during the Gunners' title-chasing campaign.

Ten years ago, Arsenal manager Arteta captained the Gunners for two seasons before retiring in 2016, making him one of the best judges in appointing Odegaard to the role.

The Norwegian took over after Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and interim captain Alexandre Lacazette left.

When Odegaard was appointed skipper, Arteta said: “What we have seen in the last 18 months since he joined us is that he has represented the values ​​of this football club, the team, his team-mates and staff in the best way possible. ”.

“He's also the captain of the national team and I think it was the right decision. I think he's a really good person to convey that commitment to the club, so I'm proud to announce that.”

However, it was a surprising decision for some supporters.

“I was a bit surprised, just considering his age,” says Arsenal fan and YouTuber Pippa Monique.

“At 23 years old, we normally support one of Hale End's freshmen for a full senior season. However, since Odegaard put on the armband we have seen a huge improvement in the team's performance, results and morale. I hope it continues and improves.”

Odegaard has been a shining example for his team-mates this season, with the playmaker contributing eight goals and eight assists in the top flight.

And he has led by example when needed, scoring the opening goal in four Premier League games this season.

“I like taking the first kick in a shoot-out. I think it's important for me to do that and try to make sure I get a good start. I enjoy that responsibility,” Arsenal's He spoke during the match program before the first leg. They will face Bayern Munich in the quarterfinals.

Odegaard then created the most chances (5), completed the most passes in the final third (29) and had an overall passing accuracy of 88 in the 2-2 draw with Thomas Tuchel's side. % and was named Player of the Match.

Odegaard's talent is not only recognized at club level.

Speaking before Arsenal's goalless draw with title rivals Manchester City, Arsenal's young forward and Odegaard's compatriot Oscar Bobb said: “It's a dream to play alongside Martin. It's a lot easier when you have one of those No. 10s.”

In last week's 2-0 win over Wolves, Odegaard sealed the victory with a goal from an acute angle in stoppage time, making him the second Arsenal player to score 50 goals in the Premier League under Arteta (31 goals, 19 assists). He became a player.

Odegaard will sign a new contract in September 2023, demonstrating his commitment to the Gunners and keeping him at the club for a further five years.

“Martin is essential to tie everything together in our play,” Arteta said earlier this season.

Asked how much Odegaard is leading the team as captain, he said: “Very big. He has taken a big step forward. His presence, the way he conducts himself in front of the group and the standards he sets are outstanding. I am,” he added.

He is also very popular among Emirates fans.

Monique called him “a player that both fans and managers would want to captain their team”, adding: “He is an incredible talent in midfield and a calm yet authoritative figure that everyone in the team respects.” .

“You can count on Martin to always be able to motivate his teammates, even when they're feeling down,” said an Arsenal content creator.

“He is always the first to get the crowd going. Whether we are winning or going for a breakthrough goal at 0-0, it takes a few times for the captain to get the Emirates Stadium buzzing again. A fist bump and an arm in the air is enough.”

“Win, lose or draw, Odegaard is always the last one to leave the pitch, circling the ground and applauding all the fans who came to cheer him on.”

If the Gunners captain can help his side successfully overcome another hurdle in their title challenge beyond north London against Tottenham on Sunday, praise from fans, team-mates and the manager will only increase.