8 Martin Odegaard

Martin Ødegaard was born on 17 December 1998 in Drammen, Norway. His early years were spent at local club Drammen Strong, where his father, Hans Erik Ødegaard, a former footballer, co-founded a football section and coached his son’s team. In 2005, his family and other investors funded the installation of artificial turf at their local field, Kjappen, an upgrade deemed crucial for his development. Ødegaard honed his skills tirelessly, setting the foundation for his future career.

His early promise was recognized when he won the Statoil talent award twice in 2014, directing prize money to his childhood club. Later, in 2015, Strømsgodset Toppfotball gifted Drammen Strong 250,000 kroner (€29,000) after Ødegaard’s transfer to Real Madrid.

Club Career

Early Career

In 2009, Ødegaard joined Strømsgodset’s youth academy, training and playing with older age groups. By 2010, he was representing Buskerud’s district team at just 11 years old, competing against players two to three years older. Coaches noted his exceptional vision and intelligence, allowing him free rein in attack. His standout performances at age 12 in a national under-16 tournament left seasoned football professionals in awe.

Strømsgodset and Real Madrid Move

At just 15, Ødegaard made his senior debut for Strømsgodset in 2014, becoming the youngest goalscorer in Tippeligaen history. His meteoric rise attracted interest from Europe’s elite clubs, leading to his 2015 transfer to Real Madrid for an initial €4 million (Kr. 35 million). There, he set another record as the club’s youngest-ever player but struggled for consistent playing time.

Loan Spells and Breakthrough

Between 2017 and 2019, Ødegaard was loaned to Heerenveen, Vitesse, and Real Sociedad, where he found his form. At Sociedad, he played a key role in their 2019 Copa del Rey triumph, establishing himself as one of La Liga’s standout young midfielders.

Arsenal Career

In 2021, Arsenal secured Ødegaard’s permanent transfer for an initial £30 million (€35 million). He quickly became a key player, showcasing his creativity, vision, and leadership. His impact earned him the captaincy in 2022. Since then, he has won Arsenal’s Player of the Season award twice, solidifying his status as one of the Premier League’s top midfielders.

International Career

Ødegaard made history in 2014 when he debuted for Norway’s senior team at just 15, becoming both the nation’s youngest-ever player and the youngest to appear in a UEFA European Championship qualifier. In March 2021, he was named Norway’s captain, leading the team with his tactical intelligence and composure.

Playing Style

Known for his exceptional technique, dribbling, vision, and passing range, Ødegaard is widely regarded as one of the best midfielders in the world. He operates primarily as an attacking midfielder, dictating play and creating scoring opportunities with his precise distribution and intelligent movement.