Mikel Arteta says Arsenal have a truly ‘exceptional’ 23-year-old in their ranks who everyone admires

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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has waxed lyrical about the “exceptional” Martin Odegaard, in conversation with Sky Sports.

In July, the Gunners confirmed that the 23-year-old had become their new permanent captain ahead of the 2022-23 campaign.

Odegaard has made a significant impact at Arsenal since his initial loan move from Real Madrid in January 2021.

Arsenal subsequently snapped the Norway captain up in the summer of 2021 for a reported £34million.

Odegaard has played 62 games for the Gunners and established himself as one of their most consistent players.

Arteta, speaking on Sky Sports ahead of the Bournemouth clash, was asked about his decision to give Odegaard the armband.

“Everything that he’s done in the last 18 months since he joined us,” replied the Arsenal boss.

“The way other people look at him, the way they respect him, the way they admire him, the values that he has as a human being and how he represents those values through the club.

“He’s an exceptional football player that wants to play the way we want to play and he’s so hungry to make this club successful. That’s the reason.”

Odegaard a future great – TBR View

For a player to become captain of their club – and country – by 23, after 18 months and 60 games at said club, speaks volumes to their character and values.

Everyone knows Arteta has high standards when it comes to character, values and conduct. So his captain would have to be someone who ticks all the boxes.

Odegaard is perfect for the job. And over the coming years, he’ll develop even further in the role as he picks up experience.

This suggests he could well become a future great at Arsenal.