The Athletic revealed earlier this month that Martin Odegaard will not be returning to Arsenal this summer, and the Real Madrid man has now confirmed it himself.
The Norwegian joined us on loan in January and became an instant fan favourite. He was brilliant for Arsenal in his few months here, and he convinced everyone, including Mikel Arteta, that he was perfect for us.
The Arsenal boss reportedly made Odegaard his number one target in this window and the Gunners were expected to go above and beyond to secure his signature in the coming weeks. Sadly, that plan is now dead.
Martin Odegaard will not return to Arsenal
Odegaard, labelled as ‘incredible’ and ‘very intelligent’ by Arteta, revealed yesterday that Real Madrid have summoned him back to pre-season training. He hinted that he will be staying at the Bernabeu next season and that is a huge blow for Arsenal and Arteta.
He told Norwegian media outlet TV2: “Real Madrid have been clear that they would like me back. So then it will be time to go there when the training starts up again.”
Asked if he had spoken to new Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti, he said: “No, not with him personally. But I have talked a lot with the club and had a close dialogue. So I feel they have a good overview.
“Of course it has always been a dream to play there (at Real Madrid). I have been in the club for over six years now, and that has always been the goal. I always want to play, I have said that all the time. Playing hard is important.”
Arsenal’s chances of bringing Odegaard back is almost zero now. That is a huge blow and it’s up to Arteta and Edu to find a good enough replacement in the coming weeks – James Maddison maybe?
Read more: Real Madrid now want ‘magnificent’ Arsenal target as Haaland and Mbappe are too expensive
Arsenal fans are disappointed with Odegaard’s comments. Here’s how a few Goobers reacted on Twitter…
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