Lineker baffled Real Madrid let Odegaard leave after Arsenal win

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Gary Lineker has told Match of the Day that he is baffled as to why Real Madrid let Martin Odegaard leave after his performance for Arsenal in their latest victory on Saturday.

The Gunners remain top of the Premier League table. And they continue to boast a flawless record, with four wins in four. But they were made to fight their way to three points against Fulham.

It was the visitors who took the lead at the Emirates, with Aleksandar Mitrovic capitalising on a Gabriel mistake. The striker made no mistake when he got the chance.

But Arsenal were able to turn the game around. And it was Odegaard who played a pivotal role in the comeback.

The Norwegian equalised when his effort was deflected. But he arguably deserved that slice of luck for all of the moments of quality leading up to the goal.

Odegaard was outstanding, producing several inspired passes and breathtaking touches. And Lineker admitted after the game that he cannot quite believe that Arsenal have managed to sign him.

“Do you know what baffles me a little bit is how have Real Madrid let him slip away when they’ve got Modric and Kroos who are really near the end of their career? It’s a strange one because he’s so clearly talented,” he told Match of the Day.

Lineker baffled Real Madrid let Odegaard leave

What is frightening is that Odegaard is just 23 years of age. He does not turn 24 until December. For most, that is the age where players are still developing and potentially becoming key players in a team.

Not only is Odegaard a key player, but he is, of course, the captain at the Emirates.

Football seems to be littered with players who never quite lived up to expectations about being tipped for absolute stardom as a teenager.

And there had been times when Odegaard looked destined for a similar fate after making his debut at 15. But he is most definitely on track once again.

Madrid may now rue letting him go. But given the role Odegaard has at Arsenal, he will certainly feel that he made the right choice in moving to the Emirates permanently last year.