Arsenal Players

General Information

Martin Ødegaard (born 17 December 1998) is a Norwegian midfielder widely known as the captain of both Arsenal and the Norway national team. Celebrated for his intelligent playmaking, vision, and leadership, Ødegaard plays a central role in orchestrating Arsenal’s midfield while guiding a new generation of players through his example and understanding of Mikel Arteta’s tactical demands.

Early Life and Rising Through the Ranks
Born in Drammen, Norway, Ødegaard began his football journey in local youth clubs before quickly gaining attention for his technical ability and football intelligence. He made his professional debut with Strømsgodset at just 15, soon moving to Real Madrid where he became their youngest-ever debutant aged 16. After loan spells at Heerenveen, Vitesse, and Real Sociedad, Ødegaard joined Arsenal in 2021—initially on loan before making the move permanent.

Arsenal Career and Captaincy
Since signing permanently in 2021, Ødegaard has become integral to Arsenal both in midfield and in leadership. He signed a long-term contract in September 2023, committing until 2028. Fans quickly embraced him for his passing range and calmness under pressure. In the 2022–23 season, he tallied 15 Premier League goals from midfield and earned a spot in the PFA Team of the Year.

In the 2024–25 campaign, Ødegaard made 30 Premier League appearances, scoring 3 goals and providing 8 assists—totaling 11 goal contributions. While this represented a dip from previous seasons, he remained Arsenal’s most prolific chance creator, generating 2.4 opportunities per 90 minutes and an impressive 0.51 big chances per 90. He also led the Premier League in through-balls per game, outlining his creative importance.

Season Challenges and Leadership
Ødegaard’s 2024–25 season faced challenges on several fronts. An early ankle injury sidelined him for two months. Upon returning, he acknowledged his performances had “not been good enough,” particularly in a lengthy Champions League victory over PSV, where he nonetheless earned man-of-the-match honours. He rallied as the season progressed, with creative and pressing statistics remaining among Arsenal’s highest—he consistently applied pressures, helped anchor the midfield, and regained influence across key fixtures.

Norway Captain and International Highlights
Serving as captain for Norway, Ødegaard has become the creative heartbeat of his national side. In a memorable World Cup qualifier against Italy, he delivered a perfect through-ball to Erling Haaland, and the pair celebrated with a nod to Thierry Henry’s iconic goal pose—symbolic of Ødegaard’s connection to Arsenal’s legacy and his impact on the national stage.

Playing Style and Tactical Influence
Ødegaard is a classic “number 8,” excelling in build-up play, quick transitions, and unlocking defences with precision passing. His awareness of space, positional discipline, and pressing ability make him a key tactical linchpin. Often the player completing the most key passes and successful pressures per game for Arsenal, he keeps the side balanced and creative. His technical maturity allows younger teammates to develop confidence in Arteta’s system, making him not just a playmaker but a strategic leader.

Off the Pitch
In his personal life, Ødegaard married Helen Spilling in a ceremony attended by teammates Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, and Leandro Trossard. The couple welcomed a son late in 2024, reflecting a period of growth and stability both on and off the field.

Legacy and Outlook
At 26, Ødegaard remains pivotal to Arsenal’s ambitions. Despite recent dips, his creative consistency, leadership, and tactical awareness keep him at the heart of the team’s identity. As Arsenal target major trophies, Ødegaard’s role—not just as a creator but as a metronome for Arteta’s system—positions him as one of the most influential midfielders in the Premier League.