As Arsenal prepares for the pre-season derby clash with Tottenham this afternoon, the Scandinavian connection between Captain Martin Ordegaard and new signing Viktor Gyokeres is becoming evident. Softfootball has been able to gather the likeness between both players.
Although Gyokeres may have only just arrived in north London, the Swedish striker is already feeling at home thanks in large part to Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard.
The 26-year-old completed his long-anticipated move from Sporting CP earlier this summer, arriving off the back of a sensational season in Portugal where he scored 43 goals in all competitions. But adapting to a new club, league, and environment can be daunting.
Fortunately for Gyokeres, Ødegaard was waiting with a warm welcome. On the striker’s very first day at London Colney, Ødegaard handed him a personal letter, an early gesture of leadership that has helped lay the foundation for Gyokeres’ early adaptation.
Speaking to the media ahead of Thursday’s preseason friendly against Tottenham Hotspur, Ødegaard explained how his Scandinavian bond with Gyokeres has helped make the transition smoother.
Ødegaard told the Arsenal media:
“With the language and everything, it’s been easier for me to help him.
“We can speak our own language. Scandinavians, they always bond well together. So, in that way, it’s been really natural.”
But it’s not just about shared origins. Ødegaard was quick to point out that the team prides itself on welcoming all new players.
Speaking about welcoming new players to the team, the Arsenal captain added:
“Every new player, we try to help them in the best possible way. That’s what I felt when I came here. I felt at home straight away.
“I felt how good the culture and environment was to get into. Everyone just wants to help you and get the best out of you.”
That culture has been key for Gyokeres, who is already training with the first team and expected to feature in Thursday’s sold-out clash, which is also the first-ever north London derby to take place outside of the UK. Though still early days, Ødegaard is impressed by what he’s seen so far.
He continued by saying,
“I think you’ve all seen what he’s done in his career so far, especially the last season at Sporting. The numbers speak for themselves.
“He’s a very complete player physical, strong, fast, a good finisher, and intelligent as well.
“You can also see the hunger, the energy he brings. He’s only trained a few times, but you can already see the quality and the willingness. I’m really excited to have him with the team.”
Meanwhile, Arteta has informed the public of his desire to make a statement during Arsenal’s derby against Tottenham this Thursday. As captured by Softfootball, who covered his pressers, Arteta called the derby a “brilliant one” for his side.
Arsenal have recorded two straight wins in their last two preseason games, with the last one against an England side, Newcastle, on Sunday.
