William Gallas: Is Odegaard Premier League’s Best? | OneFootball

Assessing Martin Odegaard’s Rise to the Top

In a recent feature by Gambling Zone, William Gallas offers some invaluable insights into the ongoing ascent of Arsenal’s captain, Martin Odegaard, within the ranks of Premier League midfielders. His observations come on the heels of Gary Neville’s bold claim that Odegaard is the best in his position in the Premier League. But is this assessment fair when compared to talents like Kevin de Bruyne? Let’s delve into Gallas’s thoughts to find out.

Consistency and Improvement

According to Gallas, Odegaard’s progression is undeniable. “Martin Odegaard has taken another step this season. He has gone up a level and has been more consistent this year than last season.” The growth is palpable, and it seems poised to continue, with Gallas predicting, “next season, we will see the best version of Martin Odegaard because he has a complete understanding of the demands of the Premier League now.”

The Norwegian’s deepening comprehension of his role at Arsenal reflects not only personal growth but a growing synergy with his team’s dynamics and aspirations. Gallas adds, “He knows what he has to do in every game,” underscoring a maturity essential for any claim to the top.

The High Bar Set by De Bruyne

While Gallas acknowledges Odegaard’s stellar rise, he maintains a clear perspective on the existing hierarchy, stating, “In terms of the best playmaker in the Premier League, you can’t put Martin Odegaard in front of Kevin de Bruyne yet.” De Bruyne’s resilience and consistent peak performance keep him at the pinnacle, a standard all players aspire to reach.

Gallas’s admiration for de Bruyne’s resilience and impact post-injury highlights an essential criterion for greatness: the ability to bounce back and still dominate on the field. “Kevin de Bruyne has shown he is the best for the last three or four seasons… When he came back from his injury, his performances reminded everyone of just how special he is as a player.”

Leadership and Legacy

Leadership is more than just performance; it’s about lifting trophies, and Gallas pinpoints this as Odegaard’s next challenge. “To be the best, you need to win the title; you need to lift trophies.” The Arsenal captain’s journey towards becoming the league’s top midfielder is intertwined with his team’s success. This, according to Gallas, could very well culminate next season: “If Arsenal don’t win it this season, I think next season will be his year and we will see that torch being handed from Kevin de Bruyne to Martin Odegaard.”

Verdict on Odegaard’s Premier League Stature

While Neville’s assessment might seem premature to some, it’s grounded in tangible improvements and a burgeoning leadership role that Odegaard has embraced. As he steers Arsenal through the challenges of the Premier League, his trajectory seems aligned with becoming the best, contingent, of course, on his ability to lead his team to ultimate glory.