Arsenal

Martin Odegaard "proud" to be playing for Arsenal

By Ben Knapton, Senior Reporter | 14 February 2021

Martin Odegaard says he is "proud" to be playing for Arsenal after making his first start for the club in Sunday's 4-2 victory over Leeds United.

Martin Odegaard has opened up on his feelings of pride after making his full debut for Arsenal against Leeds United on Sunday.

The Real Madrid loanee had featured as a substitute against Manchester United and Aston Villa, but he enjoyed his first start and first win at the club as the Gunners overcame Leeds 4-2 at the Emirates on home soil.

Odegaard earned plaudits for his performance as he was replaced by Mohamed Elneny with 12 minutes remaining, and the Norwegian playmaker has claimed that he feels "really comfortable" in North London.

Speaking to Arsenal Player after Sunday's game, Odegaard said: "It's a bit different but I think I am adapting pretty okay.

"The way they took me into the team - my teammates - and how they treated me, as well as the manager and everyone in the club, they helped me since the first minute.

"I feel really comfortable and a part of the team, so it's been easy to come in to this team because of the way they are and the way they treated me. I'm just really happy to be here and I'm proud to be a part of this team."

Arsenal moved back into the top half of the table following Sunday's win, and Odegaard will aspire to make his European debut for the club when Arsenal take on Benfica in the first leg of their Europa League last-32 tie on Thursday.