Report: Arsenal target Odegaard baffled by Ancelotti decision

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Arsenal target Martin Odegaard was left baffled by Carlo Ancelotti’s decision to leave him on the bench for Real Madrid’s final pre-season friendly at the weekend, according to a report from Defensa Central.

Those hoping for a quick resolution regarding Odegaard’s future at the end of last season are set for further frustration, it seems.

The Gunners would reportedly love to bring Odegaard back. And it was even claimed recently that they had made an offer to the Norwegian.

According to Defensa Central, Mikel Arteta’s men were prepared to pay the 22-year-old around £115,000-a-week should he sign permanently.

However, Zinedine Zidane being replaced by Ancelotti at the Bernabeu did throw a spanner in the works.

Odegaard was not in Zidane’s plans. But he looked set for a much more prominent role under Ancelotti. He has featured in several of the pre-season games.

Nevertheless, Odegaard apparently wanted clarity over his situation. Another report from Defensa Central suggested that a meeting with Ancelotti had taken place.

The Italian was unable to offer guarantees. But with Toni Kroos sustaining an injury, the door appeared to be open.

Arsenal given hope as Odegaard does not start Real Madrid friendly?

However, Odegaard started Sunday’s draw with AC Milan on the bench. Several half-time changes were made, but Odegaard was only introduced on the hour-mark.

Defensa Central is now reporting that Odegaard was not happy at all to be left out with Kroos absent. Isco started for Los Blancos.

Obviously, Sunday’s decision will count for little if Odegaard starts against Alaves in their La Liga opener on Saturday.

But Arsenal fans may take some encouragement from the reports.

The Gunners are still looking for a number 10. And Fabrizio Romano recently suggested that Arsenal will act if they get the slightest encouragement that the £50 million-rated star may be available.

So all eyes may be on Ancelotti’s team selection this weekend. Should Odegaard miss out again, many will be hoping the Gunners act.

Perhaps, Odegaard may be amongst them.