Arteta: “Odegaard's comparison with Messi is a losing battle”

Martin Odegaard's debut in the Premier League is getting closer and closer. The first stop arrives this weekend, in a duel against Manchester United where Arsenal wants to continue climbing positions in the standings: “Maybe it's a bit early to decide, we'll see how he trains. It has special qualities that we need and have missed, now we will give you time because he really wants, like us, “explained Mikel Arteta, his new coach.

The coach from San Sebastian wants to get the most out of Odegaard, but warns that he does not want to compare him with anyone: “The comparison with Messi is a losing battle, in my opinion. Martin is Martin. In recent seasons he has progressed adequately and I have followed him a lot because he played for Real Sociedad, which is my childhood team, so I know him well. He is a great talent who needs the right atmosphere and a little time. Is a specialist playing between the lines, in the position of 8 or 10. You can also play on the sides as a creative player. “

Finally, Arteta has also assessed the possibilities that exist that the Norwegian don't just arrive as yieldedbut rather stay long-term at Emirates Stadium: “It has all the qualities and characteristics that we are looking for. From there it depends on two things. First, how you adapt and what is the impact it can have on our team. Then, of what Real Madrid and the player think because it is their property and the footballer also has his opinion “.