“He’s One Of The Best In The World” – Rival Player Praises Martin Ødegaard’s Key Trait

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·17 Agustus 2025

“He’s One Of The Best In The World” – Rival Player Praises Martin Ødegaard’s Key Trait

Martin Ødegaard is set to reprise his role as Arsenal captain when the new season commences this weekend, and many will hope the Norwegian can finally guide Arsenal to a major trophy. The Gunners have strengthened significantly, addressing problem areas and adding depth to their squad. The arrival of players such as Viktor Gyökeres and Martin Zubimendi has generated excitement and a new level of expectation, but the pressure will also be on established players to deliver.

Despite criticism and a dip in form last season, Martin Ødegaard is still regarded as one of the best players in the world in his position. This is a sentiment echoed by a Premier League rival, who recently singled out a key quality in the Norwegian’s game.

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Mac Allister Inspired By Ødegaard

Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister has emerged as one of the top midfielders in Europe in recent years, and speaking in a recent interview, he revealed how Ødegaard’s style has influenced his own development. He praised the Arsenal captain for being one of the best in the world at scanning the pitch.

Speaking to The Players’ Tribune, Mac Allister explained how Roberto De Zerbi improved his game at Brighton by using Ødegaard as a prime example. He said: “When De Zerbi came in as our manager that next season, a few months before the World Cup, it changed everything for me. The main thing that he helped me improve was my scanning of the field, my ‘profiling’ of the situation. Taking little mental pictures of the chess board every two seconds.

“We looked at Ødegaard as an example of this. For me, he’s one of the best in the world at scanning. His head never stops moving. De Zerbi gave me this gift, and it really elevated my game.”

(Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Criticism And Captaincy Debate

Ødegaard has been heavily criticised in recent months following a drop-off in form last campaign. Most noticeably, Tony Adams recently suggested that Mikel Arteta should strip him of the captaincy, naming Declan Rice as his preferred choice to wear the armband.

The Norwegian, however, is unlikely to be deterred by such remarks and will remain focused on leading Arsenal in pursuit of silverware. With a stronger squad around him and a new season ahead, Ødegaard will be determined to prove his doubters wrong. Arsenal Players voted to retain Odegaard as their captain.

What do you think Gooners?

Benjamin Kenneth

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