Martin Odegaard compared to Premier League legend after latest virtuoso Arsenal display
Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard has received rave reviews after playing a key role in the comeback win against Bournemouth to maintain the Gunners’ lead at the top of the Premier League table
Micah Richards praised Martin Odegaard and compared the Arsenal captain to Premier League legend David Silva.
Odegaard has captained the Gunners to the top of the table, with Mikel Arteta’s men holding a five-point advantage over closest challengers Manchester City. The Norwegian was a key influence as Arsenal beat Bournemouth, two goals down, on Saturday.
It was the latest in a string of impressive performances from the 24-year-old, who also scored in the recent win against Everton. His performances this season have seen Richards include the midfielder in his player of the season shortlist so far.
The former Premier League winner praised Odegaard for his influence at Arsenal and the way he has bounced back from disappointments early in his career. Richards admitted he wasn’t sure about the midfielder when he first joined the Gunners but was happy to have been proven wrong.
“I love Odegaard’s journey and the way he got his career back on track. He was big news when he joined Real Madrid aged 16 but then things seemed to drift and I wondered if he would ever fulfill his potential,” wrote Richards for BBC Sport.
“Odegaard was 22 when he was loaned from Real to Arsenal in 2021 and you only get so many chances at big clubs. I wasn’t sure if he would take off or disappear.
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“There are many examples of talented teenagers that don’t quite live up to the hype. I always think of a player called Sergio Canales who I used to buy for the Football Manager game.”
Richards went so far as to compare Odegaard to his former City teammate Silva, who spent a decade at the Etihad Stadium. During that time, the Spaniard won four Premier League titles, scoring 60 goals in the top flight.
And Richards believes Odegaard’s style of play bears a striking resemblance to Silva’s style of play during his Premier League days. The former City defender admitted he was “in love” with Odegaard’s style as he slammed the midfielder.
“It’s impressive for Odegaard to be able to turn things around like that for himself, especially in one of the most competitive leagues in the world, and then take on the responsibility of captaincy to inspire his team as well,” Richards added.
“He rose to the challenge and helped transform Arsenal into a title contender as a driving force in midfield.
“Odegaard reminds me of my old City teammate David Silva in the way he likes to penetrate gaps, get on the ball and dictate the game. He also makes it all so effortless and I love watching him play.”
Odegaard will be hoping to continue his side’s title fight when Arsenal travel to Fulham on Sunday. Silva, meanwhile, currently plays for Real Sociedad, who are fourth in LaLiga.