Rio Ferdinand’s ‘crazy’ Martin Odegaard observation was proven right in Arsenal 5-1 Sporting CP

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Arsenal recorded a statement 5-1 victory in the Champions League against Sporting CP on Tuesday evening.

Mikel Arteta’s side were utterly dominant against the reigning Portuguese champions, particularly in the first half.

Gabriel Martinelli gave the Gunners an early lead, before Kai Havertz and Gabriel Magalhaes took the visitors to a 3-0 lead by half-time. A goal for the hosts straight after the break swung momentum in their favour for a while, before a Bukayo Saka penalty and a Leandro Trossard header put the result beyond doubt.

Despite not getting on the scoresheet, Martin Odegaard was Arsenal’s best player on the night. The Norwegian playmaker was the architect of the Gunners’ success, providing the beating heart of their attacking display. 

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Rio Ferdinand makes bold Martin Odegaard claim

Odegaard has only recently returned to full fitness. However, despite having suffered a significant injury lay-off, the 25-year-old is performing as well as he ever has.

Prior to this match, Rio Ferdinand even posited the theory that Odegaard somehow improved whilst he was sidelined with injury.

Speaking on TNT Sports (26/11/24, 19:10), the former Manchester United defender said: “Crazy thing about Odegaard, he’s actually become a better player with playing no games.”

Arsenal fans were certainly wowed by Odegaard as he produced a Champions League masterclass on Tuesday. The former Real Madrid man was also sensationally good against Nottingham Forest last time out in the Premier League.

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What Mikel Arteta said about Odegaard after Arsenal vs Sporting

Arteta will be well aware of just how important Odegaard is to his Arsenal team. 

Speaking after his side’s thrashing of Sporting, as quoted by the official Arsenal website, the Spanish coach said: “Yes, he was again [brilliant], I think all the boys, you know, if not you don’t have the dominant performance and the score line that we have managed to get on the game today, they were all exceptional today.”

As far as the Gunners’ ambitions in the Premier League and Champions League are concerned this season, it is of paramount importance that Odegaard is able to remain fit and firing on all cylinders.