Recently, Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard guest-starred on Camel Live and was interviewed by the host. The Norwegian captain reviewed the team’s ups and downs last season, shared manager Mikel Arteta’s expectations for the new season, and openly talked about his mental journey during his recovery from injury. He also discussed the integration of the team’s new signings and the significance of being captain for both club and country.
On last season’s regrets and motivation: The club has finished as Premier League runners-up for three consecutive years and reached the Champions League semi-finals
Football is complex, and it’s hard to pin it down to one specific issue. We finished as runners-up and reached the Champions League semi-finals—there are certainly many positives. But people often only remember that we didn’t win the title—that sting is exactly what we need to turn into motivation for the new season. Matches are often decided by tiny details, and we have to seize them. Hopefully, this year will be our year.
On Arteta’s messages and the team’s goals
The manager is always optimistic. He keeps emphasizing that the points we’ve accumulated over these three years would have been enough to win the title in many previous seasons; the key is peaking at the right time.
He has given us clear requirements on tactics and style of play, especially efficiency in both boxes—matches are often decided in these areas. We’ve all come back with a stronger desire to win.
So I think we’re more hungry to win, eager to get better, and find areas to improve. He’s given us some insights on what we can do tactically, in our style of play, and how to improve.
On his recovery from last season’s injury and whether it brought mental growth
Yes, being injured is never easy, especially when you’re desperate to play every minute. It was also one of the few moments during my time at Arsenal that I experienced a long-term injury. From the moment I knew I was injured, I had only one goal in mind: recover as soon as possible. Sitting in the stands was frustrating, but it’s part of growth. I’ve become stronger both physically and mentally.
On balancing marriage, life, and football
The key is to learn to switch off and balance everything. For me, I give 100% in training, and when I get home, I completely relax. Having a family makes it easier for me to do that, which helps a lot. However, privately, I do often dream about football when I sleep, and sometimes I have some weird tactical dreams.
On the responsibilities and growth of being Arsenal captain
Wearing the armband has made me a better player. I have to lead by example and take on more responsibility, which pushes me to keep raising my standards. As a team captain, you have a duty to push other players to do better—and of course, that means you have to get better yourself to lead them.
On helping new signings integrate and promoting the club’s team culture as captain
Our club has a special culture where everyone wants each other to get better. I felt the support from my teammates when I first joined. Now as captain, I try my best to help new players settle in—like Victor Gyökeres, for example. I told him to come to me if he needed anything, and he replied, “Just keep providing assists” (laughs).
Since you mentioned Gyökeres, can you talk about his characteristics?
In training with him, I can feel his speed is very fast, he’s physically strong, and good at movement. As a midfielder, I’ll actively adapt to his strengths. His presence also draws defenders, creating space for the whole team.
On the performance of another new signing, Martin Zubimendi
His passing and control abilities are excellent; he can add a new dimension to the midfield. I worked with him before in Spain, so I know his quality. I think he’s a great addition to our midfield, and I hope we can continue to 配合 well to help the club achieve good results on all fronts.
15-year-old Ethan Dømmann impressed in pre-season—how will Arsenal and you help him grow?
He’s a top talent, but we need to avoid putting too much pressure on him. I went through similar experiences at 15, so the best advice I can give him is: stay focused, train hard, and block out external noise.
On World Cup dreams and the rise of Norwegian football
Representing Norway at the World Cup is my biggest dream. We have great players like Erling Haaland and Jørgen Bobb. Although we have a small population, the team is on the right path.
Finally, a message to Arsenal fans
We’ve gained experience and endured regrets over the past few seasons. This year, we’ll work hard to get better every day. We need your support, and I believe this will be a special season.
