Three years ago, Martin Ödegaard's time at Real Madrid. However, the formative experiences he gained at one of the most renowned football clubs in the world had a decisive influence on him. Today, at the age of 25, the Norwegian international is not only a key player for Arsenal, but also their captain. Ödegaard reflects on his time in Madrid, the challenges he overcame there and how they set him on the path that has made him one of the most talented midfielders in Europe.
The start of a promising career: Ödegaard's arrival in Madrid
At the age of just 16, Martin Ödegaard took the plunge and joined Real Madrid, one of the biggest football clubs in the world. With a market value of three million euros and widespread media attention on his shoulders, he was regarded as one of the greatest talents of his generation. The expectations of him were enormous, and the world of football watched with bated breath to see how the young Norwegian would develop.
However, the first months and years in Madrid were anything but easy. Ödegaard was overshadowed by world stars such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Luka Modrić and Toni Kroos. The challenge of asserting himself in a team full of established players was huge. But that was only part of the story. Ödegaard also battled against the label of "child prodigy" that was imposed on him at a young age. On the one hand, this label meant a lot of attention and expectations, but on the other hand it also meant pressure and the need to constantly prove himself.
In a conversation with Arsenal's youngest player, Ethan Nwaneri, who made his debut in 2022 at the age of just 15, Ödegaard gave an insight into his feelings during this time: "It was annoying. Everyone just saw me as a young bloke and you just want to be seen as a normal player." These words illustrate the inner conflict that Ödegaard was struggling with. On the one hand, he wanted to show that he had the potential, but on the other, he wanted to be treated like any other player.
The learning process among the best: experiences in Madrid
Despite the initial difficulties, Martin Ödegaard now sees his time at Real Madrid in a positive light. "My time in Madrid was good. It was a positive phase, even if some might think otherwise, he emphasises in interviews. The opportunity to train daily with some of the best footballers in the world and develop in an environment full of professionals was priceless. These experiences have not only taught him a lot as a footballer, but have also helped him on a personal level.
At Real Madrid, Ödegaard learnt how to deal with the enormous pressure and high expectations. This mental strength is one of the qualities that makes him one of Arsenal's leading players today. He developed a deep understanding of the game and learnt how to hold his own in an environment where competition is at the highest level.
Ödegaard himself says that he has not only matured as a player in Madrid, but also as a person. He learnt how to deal with setbacks and the ability to constantly motivate himself anew. These lessons are what make him so successful in his current role at Arsenal. As captain of the Gunners, he leads his team with the same determination and calm that he developed in Madrid.
From Madrid to Arsenal: a path of growth
Martin Ödegaard's time at Real Madrid was a phase of personal and professional development. Although he never made the breakthrough with the Whites that many had hoped for, this time was nevertheless decisive for his career. Because it laid the foundation for his development into the player he is today.
After returning to Real Madrid following various loan spells, including at Real Sociedad, Ödegaard decided to take a new path. In 2021, he moved to Arsenal, initially on loan and later permanently, and soon took on the role of captain. Under the guidance of Mikel Arteta, he has developed into one of the team's most important players, both on and off the pitch.
At Arsenal, Ödegaard was finally able to realise his full potential. He established himself as a creative mind in midfield, directing play and setting the scene for his team-mates. His understanding of the game, his technique and his calmness on the ball are qualities that make him an indispensable part of the team.
The future looks bright: Ödegaard's perspectives
With a view to the The future Martin Ödegaard sees a brilliant career ahead of him. His time at Real Madrid prepared him for the highs and lows of professional football and gave him the tools to play an even bigger role in the coming years. Whether at Arsenal or perhaps one day at another big club, the future of this extraordinary talent seems to be full of possibilities.
It is this mixture of talent, hard work and the valuable experience he gained at a young age that makes Martin Ödegaard one of the most exciting midfielders in Europe. For him, Real Madrid was more than just a club - it was a school of life and football. A school that has made him the player he is today and that will continue to shape him, no matter where his path may take him.
