Liverpool have been handed a harsh reminder of why they should have pushed to sign Martin Odegaard more vigorously when the teenager was one of the most exciting youngsters in world football back in 2015. The playmaker scored a brace for Arsenal against Chelsea on Tuesday night, showcasing all of the qualities required in the centre of the park at Anfield.
Odegaard has shone for Arsenal this season, with his consistently superb performances helping the club challenge for the Premier League trophy. The 24-year-old has led by example since being awarded the captain’s armband, scoring 14 and assisting seven in 33 league appearances.
The Norway international continued to showcase why he has been touted as one of the stars of the season against Chelsea on Tuesday, scoring twice in a 3-1 win. Odegaard smashed home a fierce first before a touch of quality allowed him to break free from his marker, Raheem Sterling, and slot home from close-range moments later.
The victory moves Arsenal back to the top of the table and reminds Liverpool that they had the opportunity to sign a midfielder that is on course to become one of the best in the business. The Reds held talks with Odegaard whilst he was at Stromsgodset but were unable to persuade him to join them at Anfield, with the player preferring a switch to Real Madrid, which has proven to be a significant blow given that he would be ideal now to improve their midfield ranks.
Speaking about Liverpool back in 2014, the then-teenager told Sport Bild: “Liverpool have always been my dream club, but I will not let this affect my decision when I choose a new club. It’s all about finding the team that is best for me and for my development. That is not necessarily Liverpool. I haven’t really thought about my future yet.
“I will end the season here and then visit a number of clubs. I have not made a final decision yet, though. Of course, it’s flattering when you hear that big clubs are after you, but I don’t think about it too often.”
He then revealed how he decided his next move, telling The Platers Tribune: “My dad handled everything with the clubs, and there were a lot. We went to Bayern, Dortmund, Man Utd, Liverpool, Madrid, Arsenal too. We got flown around in private planes and made to feel special.
“I’m not just saying this … I was actually close to choosing Arsenal. When we went there, I got to train at London Colney. I met Arsene Wenger. He took me and Dad out for dinner. That was cool, but strange too. So, why Real Madrid then? I talked about it a lot with my dad and the rest of my family. In the end, Madrid is Madrid.
“They were the Champions League holders with the best players in the world. But the really key thing about Madrid’s offer was that they had a B team where I could play competitive football immediately. And the manager of that team? Zinedine Zidane. It felt like the total package.”
Real Madrid wasn’t the best place for Odegaard but he’s found a home at Arsenal where the Norwegian very much is the total package.
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