Martin Odegaard captained Arsenal to their first Premier League title in 20 years last season but the Norwegian playmaker has admitted his injury issues affected his ability to celebrate that achievement
Arsenal’s Martin Odegaard has admitted that injuries left him frustrated last season, despite having won the Premier League. The Gunners claimed the title for the first time over 20 years under Mikel Arteta, having finished seven points clear of nearest challengers Manchester City.
It also saw the north London side finally get over the line following three successive near misses. And while he and his teammates celebrated their achievement with gusto, Odegaard has admitted that his persistent injury issues throughout the campaign took some of the shine off of what should have been a memorable campaign.
The 27-year-old made just 17 Premier League starts last season, having been forced to deal with knee and muscle injuries.
“Compared to last year – which was a very peculiar season with numerous injuries and various other issues – things are different now,” he told VG.
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“When you do everything, you can every day to take care of your body, yet still get so many punches in the face, it’s obviously tough."
“It obviously affects me at home, even though I try to put it aside. It was a tough year personally, with a lot of frustration,” he added. “I imagine she’s (his wife) happier these days, yes.”
Despite those grievances, Odegaard now seems back to his best. He has already made eight appearances and scored four goals, bettering his goalscoring record from last season.
Asked how he has managed to recapture his best form, Odegaard added: “I had some time off after the season, then went through the pre-World Cup build-up, easing my way back into match fitness. Since then, I’ve been in good form and playing matches, so things are going better.”
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has also recognised the midfielder's improvement now that he is back to full fitness. He said: "First of all he needs to be available and last year he missed so many games through injuries."
Odegaard will certainly hope to shine for Norway over the three-week international break. They are set to take on Denmark on Thursday evening ahead of clashes with Portugal (twice) and Wales.
Odegaard will then turn his attention back to his club commitments and getting Arsenal back on track. The Gunners were thumped 3-0 by Brighton in their final match before the international break. Their next game pits them against Leeds at the Emirates Stadium ahead of a Champions League showdown with Lille.