Former Real Madrid prodigy excited about potential UCL faceoff – ‘It would be special’ | OneFootball

It hasn’t been long when Martin Odegaard was still considered a youth prodigy, looking to break through the ranks at Real Madrid.

While his spell at the Santiago Bernabeu did not quite work out as intended, the Norwegian has certainly made a name for himself in the Premier League with Arsenal and is now considered as one of the best midfielders in world football.

Odegaard, in fact, was one of the architects of Arsenal’s emphatic 7-1 win over PSV Eindhoven in the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16 last night.

Odegaard looking forward to potential Real Madrid clash

Following the win, Odegaard admitted that he is now stoked about the prospect of facing his former club Real Madrid in the next round.

In an interaction with Amazon Prime, the Arsenal superstar said (h/t Mundo Deportivo), “It would be special to go back there.”

Odegaard is keen on playing against his former club (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

Odegaard played for Real Madrid between 2015 to 2021, during which he featured in just 11 competitive matches for Los Blancos.

At Arsenal, though, the Norwegian has found immense success. Since joining the club, the midfielder has featured in 182 competitive matches for the Gunners, racking up 40 goals and 32 assists.

Odegaard’s performances have played a key role in helping Arsenal emerge as one of the contenders for the Champions League this season. And as per the player, the Gunners are more than ready for the next challenge.

“Whoever we get, we’ll be ready, but first we have to finish the job at home and then we’ll see who we get,” added the Arsenal captain .

Following an emphatic 7-1 win over PSV Eindhoven, Arsenal have practically booked their place in the quarterfinals. But the onus is now on Real Madrid to follow suit.

The reigning European champions secured a narrow 2-1 victory over Atletico Madrid in the first leg, but the return leg at the Metropolitano will be far from a walk in the park.